Meaning & Definition of word "Absorption"

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    Absorption

    /əbˈzɔːrpʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. The process by which one thing takes in or absorbs another, such as the uptake of energy or substances.
      • Example: The absorption of water by the roots is essential for the plant's survival.
    • 2. The process of fully engaging with or understanding a subject, concept, or experience.
      • Example: Her absorption in the book kept her up all night.
    • 3. The state or condition of being absorbed or engrossed.
      • Example: The artist worked in total absorption, losing track of time.
    • 4. In finance, the transfer of ownership in an asset or company.
      • Example: The absorption of the smaller company by the larger one created a powerful corporate entity.
    • 5. The extent to which a substance can take in another substance.
      • Example: The absorption rate of the new material was significantly higher than expected.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English: from Latin absorptio(n-), from absorbere 'absorb'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    rate of absorption:

    The speed at which substances are absorbed.

    absorption spectrum:

    A spectrum that shows the wavelengths of light absorbed by a substance.

    selective absorption:

    The process whereby certain wavelengths of light are absorbed while others are reflected.

    Related Words

    absorb:

    To take in or soak up a substance.

    absorptive:

    Able to absorb substances.

    absorptance:

    The fraction of incident radiation that is absorbed by a surface.

    Slang Meanings of absorption

    Meaning: Getting into something deeply.

    Example Sentence: He's totally absorbed in this game right now.

    Meaning: Being mindlessly engrossed.

    Example Sentence: She was in total absorption with her phone, barely realizing the time.