absorbing

adjective

ab·​sorb·​ing əb-ˈsȯr-biŋ How to pronounce absorbing (audio)
-ˈzȯr-
: fully taking one's attention : engrossing
an absorbing novel
absorbingly adverb

Examples of absorbing in a Sentence

shell collecting can be so absorbing that you don't notice the tide coming in
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Billy Joel's documentary digs deep into past with poignancy – but he's 'not finished yet' Culture Club film delves into history filled with drama, Boy George, love and drugs ‘Walk of Fame’ The most compelling track on an album full of soaring choruses now has an equally absorbing video. Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 8 June 2025 In an absorbing contest, both women played aggressive tennis in a bid to gain the upper hand in a close first set. George Ramsay, CNN Money, 5 June 2025 Only Mathurin, who had 23 points and eight rebounds in 25 minutes, looked comfortable absorbing contact and continuing to push forward. Eric Koreen, New York Times, 30 May 2025 Warm weather and long days stoke the desire to let time and obligations fall away, and to give yourself over to an absorbing novel, history, or memoir. The Atlantic, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for absorbing

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of absorb

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absorbing was in 1806

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absorbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absorbing. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

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