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

• attention
• concentration
• engrossment
• enthrallment
• immersion

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

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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
• self-absorption
• absorption spectrum

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

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