"absorb" Definition

Definitions for the word "absorb" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v. t.
To swallow up; to engulf; to overwhelm; to cause to disappear as if by swallowing up; to use up; to include.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
To suck up; to drink in; to imbibe; as a sponge or as the lacteals of the body.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v. t.
To engross or engage wholly; to occupy fully; as, absorbed in study or the pursuit of wealth.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. t.
To take up by cohesive, chemical, or any molecular action, as when charcoal absorbs gases. So heat, light, and electricity are absorbed or taken up in the substances into which they pass.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v.
1 incorporate as part of itself or oneself. 2 take in, suck up (liquid, heat, knowledge, etc.). 3 reduce the effect or intensity of; deal easily with (an impact, sound, difficulty, etc.). 4 consume (resources etc.). 5 (often as absorbing adj.) Engross the attention of. [latin sorbeo suck in]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "absorb" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "absorb" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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