absorb
Translation
to soak up, to take in, to engross, to cushion
Examples
A sponge can absorb water.
A sponge can absorb water.
The company was absorbed by a larger one.
The company was absorbed by a larger one.
He was completely absorbed in his book.
He was completely absorbed in his book.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to take in (sth.) A sponge can absorb water.
be absorbed ((by sth.)) to be taken over by (sth.) The company was absorbed by a larger one.
be absorbed ((in sth.)) to be very interested in (sth.) He was completely absorbed in his book.
Similar Words
Synonyms: soak up, take in, engross; Antonyms: emit, release
Etymology
From Latin 'ab-' (from) + 'sorbere' (to suck in).
Memory Tips
Picture a sponge that 'sucks in' ('sorb') liquid away 'from' ('ab-') a surface.