absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
1
a
: the process of absorbing something or of being absorbed
absorption of water
compare adsorption
b
: interception of radiant energy or sound waves
2
: entire occupation of the mind
his absorption in his work
absorptive
əb-ˈsȯrp-tiv How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
adjective

Examples of absorption in a Sentence

forgot to return the phone call due to his absorption in setting up the new computer system
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.
Beta-glucan blocks cholesterol absorption in the digestive tract and increases its excretion through the stool, which helps lower cholesterol levels. Jillian Kubala, Health, 20 May 2025 The time of day or taking it with food does not affect biotin absorption, but may be a consideration for other nutrients in combination supplements. Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 20 May 2025 The fish oil is also in a triglyceride molecular form—how it’s naturally found in fish—which helps for optimal absorption. Brianna Peters, Vogue, 18 May 2025 Additional notes from my personal testing are the easy-to-use dropper, fast absorption, and visible smoothing effects on my neck and forehead. Sarah Y. Wu, Glamour, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for absorption

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French & Late Latin; French, borrowed from Late Latin absorptiōn-, absorptiō, from absorbēre "to absorb" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of absorption was in 1597

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absorption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absorption. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

absorption

noun
ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
1
: the process of absorbing or being absorbed: as
a
: the passing of digested food through the wall of the intestines into the blood or lymph
b
: the stopping and taking in especially of radiant energy or sound waves
2
: entire occupation of the mind
absorptive
-ˈsȯrp-tiv How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
adjective

Medical Definition

absorption

noun
ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən, -ˈzȯrp- How to pronounce absorption (audio)
1
: the process of absorbing or of being absorbed
absorption of nourishment in the small intestine
compare adsorption
2
: interception of radiant energy or sound waves

Legal Definition

absorption

noun
ab·​sorp·​tion
: the application to the states of rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution
while Powell [v. Alabama] was sometimes described as having absorbed the right to counsel, the Court there clearly limited any such absorptionW. R. LaFave and J. H. Israel

More from Merriam-Webster on absorption

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