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

Or better yet, plunk down on one of the three beaches and soak up the stupendous view. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 July 2026

Lauren Sánchez Bezos is soaking up the sun in her latest selfie. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 27 July 2026

The hotter atmosphere acts like a dry sponge that greedily soaks up soil moisture, creating the drought that fuels wildfires. — Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 26 July 2026

In this photo shared on Meghan’s Instagram, Harry is seen splashing in the waves with Archie and Lilibet as the family soaked up the sun by the shore. — Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 26 July 2026

Rhymes for soak up

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