English Lexicon

Absorb

/əbˈzɔːrb/
verbCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #800 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To take in or soak up (liquid or energy) through a surface.

    "The sponge can absorb a significant amount of water."
  2. 2

    To take in information or ideas fully.

    "She was able to absorb the complex theories quickly."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'absorb' originates from the Latin 'absorbere', which means 'to suck in'. It entered Middle English through Old French in the late 14th century, evolving to encompass both physical and metaphorical meanings of taking in or assimilating.

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