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

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 The less viscous consistency allows for better distribution and absorption, says Cavalcante. Neha Tandon, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2024 If taken orally, probiotics can enhance the body’s nutrient absorption and systemic inflammation. Elizabeth Gamillo, Discover Magazine, 23 Feb. 2024 Raw egg whites contain the protein avidin, which obstructs the absorption of biotin, according to Purina. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 16 Feb. 2024 Things to Consider When Buying Shampoos and Conditioners for Dry Hair Absorption When testing out formulas, absorption is one of the most important factors to consider. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 15 Feb. 2024 For maximum absorption, work the product into your skin via gentle massage immediately after toweling off post-shower. Brigitt Earley, Allure, 4 Feb. 2024 Three different specialized Levoit filters can fit this model, including ones for pet allergies, smoke removal, and toxin absorption. Kelsey Kunik, Parents, 15 Feb. 2024 For maximum absorption, iron supplements should be taken without food. Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 12 Feb. 2024 Dust obscures many wavelengths of radiation, from optical to X-rays, but long infrared wavelengths are much less susceptible to scattering and absorption. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 6 Feb. 2024

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 18 Mar. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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