absorption

noun

ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-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 How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
adjective

Example Sentences

forgot to return the phone call due to his absorption in setting up the new computer system
Recent Examples on the Web Felt strips on the ceiling help with sound absorption. Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2023 For example, athletes might want socks with additional shock absorption; people with sensitive skin may need to look for natural fabric; and people who sweat a lot may need to choose moisture-wicking fabrics infused with antimicrobial properties. Sarah Bradley, Health, 20 Mar. 2023 Spinach, beet greens and chard contain oxalates, which can bind to minerals like calcium and inhibit their absorption. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2023 Skin Activator was formulated with the same award-winning science, so its delivery system mimic’s the skin’s natural structure to maximize absorption into the stratum corneum while being gentle. Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2023 This helps create optimal light absorption, and as a result, higher yields. Quincy Bulin, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2023 The older satellite is designed to spot light absorption patterns for both carbon dioxide and methane. IEEE Spectrum, 14 Mar. 2023 In water, absorption is strong in the red and weak in the blue, thus red light is absorbed quickly in the ocean, leaving blue. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 10 Mar. 2023 It's used to power a Brose S-Mag 250 watt electric motor offering 90Nm of torque, stopping relies on 220mm interchangeable cartridge disc brakes, and shock absorption is courtesy of Öhlins TTX 22M T205x65 shocks. Matthew Humphries, PCMAG, 10 Mar. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'absorption.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of absorption was in 1597

Dictionary Entries Near absorption

Cite this Entry

“Absorption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absorption. Accessed 31 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

absorption

noun
ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-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 How to pronounce absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
adjective

Medical Definition

absorption

noun
ab·​sorp·​tion əb-ˈsȯrp-shən, -ˈzȯrp- How to pronounce absorption (audio)
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 absorptionW. R. LaFave and J. H. Israel

More from Merriam-Webster on absorption

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