Main Entry: ad·sorp·tion

Pronunciation: \ad-ˈsȯrp-shən, -ˈzȯrp-\

Function: noun

Etymology: ad- + aboutsorption

Date: 1882

: the adhesion in an extremely thin layer of molecules (as of gases, solutes, or liquids) to the surfaces of solid bodies or liquids with which they are in contact — compare absorption

— ad·sorp·tive \-ˈsȯrp-tiv, -ˈzȯrp-\ adjective