absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən 

-ˈzȯrp-

1

a

: the process of absorbing something or of being absorbed

absorption of water

compare adsorption

b

: interception of radiant energy or sound waves

2

: entire occupation of the mind

his absorption in his work

absorptive

əb-ˈsȯrp-tiv 

-ˈzȯrp-

adjective

Synonyms

• immersion
• attention
• concentration

Examples of absorption in a Sentence

forgot to return the phone call due to his absorption in setting up the new computer system

Recent Examples on the Web

Available in three flavors, Be Love’s drink is formulated for optimal absorption, drawing upon 220mg of sodium, 45mg of potassium, and 15mg of magnesium malate (the form known to aid in pain relief and reduced fatigue) to hydrate, energize, and replenish with every sip. —Brianna Peters, Vogue, 10 Aug. 2025

Cysteinyl leukotrienes stimulate gut absorption of food allergens to promote anaphylaxis in mice. —Hannah Millington, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Aug. 2025

These impressive running shoes come in seven stunning colors and feature advanced sole technology that provides exceptional shock absorption, reducing knee strain and foot fatigue with every step. —Jennifer Chan, Travel + Leisure, 7 Aug. 2025

Additionally, differences in research methods make deciphering xylitol absorption difficult.5 Does not cause cancer: Contrary to some beliefs, xylitol does not cause cancer. —Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French & Late Latin; French, borrowed from Late Latin absorptiōn-, absorptiō, from absorbēre "to absorb" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing absorption

• absorption band
• absorption line
• absorption spectrum
• self-absorption

Rhymes for absorption

• adsorption
• desorption
• resorption
• chemisorption
• malabsorption
• reabsorption
• sorption

Kids Definition

absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən 

-ˈzȯrp-

1

: the process of absorbing or being absorbed: as

a

: the passing of digested food through the wall of the intestines into the blood or lymph

b

: the stopping and taking in especially of radiant energy or sound waves

2

: entire occupation of the mind

absorptive

-ˈsȯrp-tiv 

-ˈzȯrp-

adjective

Medical Definition

absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən, -ˈzȯrp- 

1

: the process of absorbing or of being absorbed

absorption of nourishment in the small intestine

compare adsorption

2

: interception of radiant energy or sound waves

Legal Definition

absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion

: the application to the states of rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution

while Powell [v. Alabama] was sometimes described as having absorbed the right to counsel, the Court there clearly limited any such absorption

—W. R. LaFave and J. H. Israel