This is the 791st most frequent Korean word.
먹는
"먹는" means "eating" or "that eats."
In this sentence, "먹는" functions as part of the clause that "간식을" (snacks) is the object of eating, and "것을 좋아해요" (like doing this) indicates enjoyment of the action.
저는 책을 읽으면서 간식을 먹는 것을 좋아해요.
I like eating snacks while reading books.
The use of "먹는" here is progressive, indicating a continuous action by stating "중이에요" (is in the middle of) along with "먹는," describing the cat's activity.
저 고양이는 항상 뭔가를 먹는 중이에요.
That cat is always eating something.
The word "먹는" is used as a noun modifier, specifying the action of "eating" as it relates to "습관" (habit). It describes what kind of habit it is.