absorption
absorption Lexical Profile
absorption Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The physical, chemical, or biological process by which one substance, such as a liquid, gas, nutrient, or form of energy, is taken in and retained by another substance, cell, or tissue.
"Vitamin D plays an essential role in facilitating the absorption of calcium in the digestive tract."
The state of being deeply engrossed, mentally occupied, or wholly focused on a particular thought, activity, or interest.
"Her complete absorption in the historical manuscript made her lose all track of time."
The incorporation or integration of a smaller group, organization, territory, or cost into a larger existing system or entity.
"The gradual absorption of smaller regional banks into national conglomerates reshaped the financial sector."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'absorption' (where a substance permeates the entire volume of another material, like water into a sponge) with 'adsorption' (where molecules adhere only to the exterior surface of a material). Also note the spelling change from the 'b' in 'absorb' to the 'p' in 'absorption'.
• Rhymes for absorption
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin absorptio, a noun of action from the verb absorbere ('to swallow up' or 'devour'), formed from ab- ('away from') and sorbere ('to suck in').