1.
The ~ of fuel or natural resources is the amount of them that is used or the act of using them.
The laws have led to a reduction in fuel ~ in the US.
...a tax on the ~ of non-renewable energy resources.
N-UNCOUNT: with supp
2.
The ~ of food or drink is the act of eating or drinking something, or the amount that is eaten or drunk. (FORMAL)
Most of the wine was unfit for human ~...
The average daily ~ of fruit and vegetables is around 200 grams...
N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp
3.
Consumption is the act of buying and using things.
Recycling the waste from our increased ~ is better than burning it.
N-UNCOUNT
4.
see also conspicuous ~