soak up

verb

soaked up; soaking up; soaks up

1

: to take in (liquid) : absorb

The rag soaked up most of the water.

2

: to enjoy feeling or experiencing (something pleasant) in usually a slow or relaxed way

We went to the beach and soaked up the sun/sunshine all afternoon.

I sat at my table for an hour soaking up the atmosphere of the café.

The performers stood on the stage, soaking up the applause.

3

: to learn and remember (something) quickly

He eagerly soaked up every word she said.

She has an ability to soak up new information very quickly.

4

: to use a large amount of (money, supplies, etc.)

This project is soaking up resources that could be used elsewhere.

Examples of soak up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While presenting something of a logistical challenge for the privacy-minded, soaking in the tub while soaking up the views is an experience not to be missed. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Sep. 2026

Brittany is soaking up every moment with Bronze, who has already joined in on one of the family’s favorite pastimes — cheering on Patrick. — Emy Lacroix, PEOPLE, 14 Sep. 2026

Yet nicotine isn’t the only bioactive chemical that smokers soak up in large concentrations. — Mike McRae 10, New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2026

Katie Holmes and boyfriend Jason Bard Yarmosky are soaking up the last of the summer sun in Italy. — Jennifer Hassan, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for soak up

• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• buildup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup
• markup