absorb

//əbˈzɔːrb//
B2Frequency Level 8Neutral
Visual representation of absorb

Verb

absorbInfinitive
absorbPresent tense
absorbedPast tense
absorbedPast participle
absorbingPresent participle
absorbsThird-person singular
1

To take in or soak up a liquid or other substance by chemical or physical action.

The sponge absorbs water quickly.

2

To take in and assimilate information, ideas, or experiences.

She can absorb new information very quickly.

3

To occupy or engage someone's attention or interest completely.

The novel absorbed her completely, and she read it in one sitting.

4

To take in and reduce the effect or intensity of sound, light, or impact.

The thick curtains absorb most of the noise from outside.

5

To incorporate or assimilate something into a larger entity.

The large company absorbed several smaller businesses.