absorb: meaning and definitions

To take (something) in through or as through pores or interstices.

To occupy the full attention, interest, or time of; engross. See Synonyms at monopolize.

To retain (radiation or sound, for example) wholly, without reflection or transmission.

To take in; assimilate: immigrants who were absorbed into the social mainstream.

To learn; acquire: "Matisse absorbed the lesson and added to it a new language of color” ( Peter Plagen).

To receive (an impulse) without echo or recoil: a fabric that absorbs sound; a bumper that absorbs impact.

To assume or pay for (a cost or costs).

To endure; accommodate: couldn't absorb the additional hardships.

To use up; consume: The project has absorbed all of our department's resources.