absorbs

present tense third-person singular of absorb
1
as in drinks
to take in (something liquid) through small openings most of the spilled water was absorbed by the tablecloth

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
3
as in integrates
to make a part of a body or system local schools will seek to absorb the new immigrants into the regular curriculum as quickly as possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
5

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of absorbs If a single slide is carrying the problem, the solution and the result all at once, the room absorbs none of the three. Lynn Smith, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026 Research published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2011 study) showed that hair absorbs measurable quantities of both minerals from water alone. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 Sep. 2026 Its uniquely oil soluble form of vitamin C weightlessly absorbs to instantly boost radiance while remaining gentle on skin. ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026 The contoured memory foam midsole provides arch support and absorbs shock, adjustable straps that create a customized fit, and a flexible outsole that provides reliable traction. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 10 Sep. 2026 This design effectively absorbs violent shockwaves that would otherwise shatter conventional armor. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 9 Sep. 2026 Nitrogen is also a core component of chlorophyll, which absorbs energy from light in photosynthetic organisms, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy-carrying molecule found in the cells of plants and animals. Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Sep. 2026 The sunscreen itself is completely transparent, absorbs quickly, and sits comfortably under makeup without pilling. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2026 The result is an unusually fluid lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for absorbs
Verb
  • The cardamom banana pudding was inspired by the cardamom tea his dad drinks before bed.
    Maven Navarro, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Lin also drinks a glass of water with psyllium to get extra fiber.
    Cathy Cassata, HEALTH, 26 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • But … Kansas City is just four points out of fourth place, too, which San Diego occupies with 42 points.
    Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 16 Sep. 2026
  • Osservatorio Fondazione Prada, inaugurated in December 2016 and dedicated to artistic curation, occupies the uppermost levels.
    Luke Leitch, Vogue, 15 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Rather than a basic cell update, the system is a adaptable modular architecture that integrates into existing vehicle lines.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Now the company is taking it one step further with Centric AI, which integrates the company’s AI solutions to make product lifecycle decisions and workflows faster and easier for retailers and brands.
    Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Jongmin Lee, a quantum sensing scientist at SNL, has been working to build an extremely small version of this device, one that consumes very little power and can be used in the field.
    Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Throughout our conversation, Angelyne adds ice cubes to the bowl, swirls it with a spoon, and consumes it like gazpacho.
    Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 11 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • But a coalition that tolerates antisemitism doesn’t deserve to get it.
    Doug Schneider, New York Daily News, 28 Aug. 2026
  • This plant thrives in hot, dry conditions and tolerates humidity well.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 5 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Social Security swallows nearly a quarter of the federal budget and is less than a decade away from insolvency.
    Andrew G. Biggs, Washington Post, 28 Aug. 2026
  • If your dog swallows these fibers, it can get caught up in the digestive tract like hair in plumbing and create a blockage.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Situated by the storied Osaka Castle, Patina Osaka is a modern urban sanctuary that pays homage to the Japanese city’s singular beauty and immerses guests in its dynamic culture.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Aug. 2026
  • For how much this book immerses you in the natural world, there is regular talk of machinery and robots in the story.
    Zachary Fletcher, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The menu advertises Singaporean cuisine, which incorporates influences from Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions and ingredients.
    Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Traditional fireclay construction incorporates natural clay, high-heat firing, and a thick, lustrous glaze.
    Blythe Copeland, Martha Stewart, 10 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absorbs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/absorbs. Accessed 17 Sep. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster