absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt 

-ˈzȯr-

variants or less commonly absorbant

: able to absorb

as absorbent as a sponge

absorbent noun

or less commonly absorbant

Synonyms of absorbent

• thirsty
• spongy

Examples of absorbent in a Sentence

highly absorbent material that is really good for wiping off automobiles

Recent Examples on the Web

Build walkways with absorbent materials, pavement, or stepping stones in high-traffic areas. —Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 26 Jan. 2026

However, highly absorbent fibers like wool may become damaged, so check your manufacturer's care instructions. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2026

These trays, made of diatomite, are highly absorbent, soaking up any excess water and drying quickly to keep your sink areas cleaner and moisture-free. —Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Jan. 2026

Puppy pads are naturally absorbent and shouldn’t leave a mess underneath them. —Katey Psencik, Austin American Statesman, 23 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin absorbent-, absorbens, present participle of absorbēre "to absorb"

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for absorbent

• adsorbent
• immunosorbent
• sorbent

Kids Definition

absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt 

-ˈzȯr-

: able to absorb

as absorbent as a sponge

absorbency

əb-ˈsȯr-bən-sē, 

-ˈzȯr-

noun

absorbent noun

Medical Definition

absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent

variants also absorbant

-bənt 

: able to absorb

absorbent gauze

absorbent noun

also absorbant