Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/əbˈzɔːrpʃən/

Definitions

1. The process by which one substance takes in or absorbs another substance.
2. The capacity of a material to absorb energy or liquid.

Usage Examples

• The absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestine.
• In physics, absorption refers to the way materials take in light.

Etymology

From Latin "absorptio," meaning "a sucking in."

Synonyms

• Uptake
• Assimilation

Antonyms

• Emission
• Excretion

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /əbˈzɔːrpʃən/
• British English: /əbˈzɔːpʃən/

Historical Usage

The term "absorption" has been in use since the 14th century, initially in reference to the absorption of liquids.

Cultural Nuances

Absorption processes are critical in various fields such as biology, chemistry, and environmental science, reflecting the importance of understanding how substances interact.

More Information

For further reading, explore texts on physical chemistry and biological processes regarding absorption mechanisms.