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

There are fewer opportunities for younger workers to find mentors and soak up knowledge. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 29 June 2026

Apple Martin is soaking up every second the summer season has to offer. — Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 29 June 2026

There were also pristine Vespas from Piaggio's collection displayed like posing models to admire, and soaking up attention usually directed toward the nearby marbles with idealized physiques. — ABC News, 27 June 2026

Cucumbers and melon soak up a tangy lime-lemon-shallot vinaigrette and are topped with feta cheese. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, 27 June 2026

Rhymes for soak up

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