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

• thirsty
• spongy

Examples of absorbent in a Sentence

highly absorbent material that is really good for wiping off automobiles

Recent Examples on the Web

At the 2025 Changchun Airshow, observers noted that the J-20 stealth fighter’s radar-absorbent surface appeared more durable and easier to maintain than that of US aircraft. —Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025

Whether made from cotton or linen, canvas or denim, these fabric napkins are absorbent and durable—the best ones are even machine washable for easy clean-up. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 23 Oct. 2025

Non-absorbent towels are one of my biggest pet peeves. —Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025

This coating can build up and leave a residue on the inside of your dryer as well as on your laundry, making items like bath towels less absorbent over time. —Lauren David, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2025

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