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.
Indeed, what begins as an absorbing evening of bridge is to turn into a more dangerous game altogether. Ashlee Conour, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2025 In this absorbing period drama, Daniel Day-Lewis stars as a respected lawyer in 1870s New York who falls in love with his fiancée May's (Winona Ryder) cousin, Ellen (Michelle Pfeiffer). Lia Beck, EW.com, 25 June 2025 The other, more absorbing story looks back at his rise from Lagos to global pop superstardom. Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 17 June 2025 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 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 10 Jul. 2025.

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