Absorbable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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absorbable

[ษ™bหˆsษ”หrbษ™bl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical

Capable of being absorbed by the body or tissue, typically referring to a material that dissolves or is broken down naturally within the body.

Synonyms

biodegradable, decomposable, dissolvable.

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Word Description / Examples
absorbable

Used when talking about something that can be taken in or soaked up, often by another substance or material. Commonly used in scientific, medical, or material contexts.

  • The absorbable suture material will break down inside the body over time.
  • These absorbable sponges are used during surgery to control bleeding.
biodegradable

Used in environmental contexts to describe materials that break down naturally through the action of living organisms. Often used when discussing sustainability and eco-friendly products.

  • These bags are biodegradable and decompose naturally without harming the environment.
  • Biodegradable packaging is an important step towards reducing plastic waste.
dissolvable

Used when something can be dissolved in a liquid, usually a context involving chemicals, medicine, or food. Often found in everyday contexts as well.

  • The dissolvable powder should be mixed with water before consumption.
  • This drug is available in a dissolvable strip that melts on your tongue.
decomposable

Typically used in scientific or environmental discussions about materials that can be broken down chemically or biologically. Often a more technical term compared to biodegradable.

  • The researcher studied how different materials are decomposable in various conditions.
  • All organic matter is decomposable to some extent, but the rate varies.

Examples of usage

  • The stitches used in the surgery are absorbable, so they will dissolve on their own.
  • This type of absorbable material is commonly used in medical implants.
  • After the surgery, the body will gradually absorb the absorbable mesh.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Many materials are designed to be absorbable, such as sponges and certain types of packaging.
  • In nutrition, some substances are classified as absorbable based on how easily the body can take them in, influencing diet and health.
  • In environmental science, absorbable materials can affect pollution control and waste management, as they play a role in how toxins are cleaned up.

Health and Medicine

  • Medications that are absorbable can enter the bloodstream quickly, making them more effective in treating conditions.
  • Vitamins and minerals have varying degrees of absorbability, affecting how well the body can utilize them for health.

Technology

  • In materials science, absorbable materials are often used in applications like biodegradable products to minimize environmental impact.
  • Recent innovations include absorbable sutures in surgery, which dissolve in the body over time, eliminating the need for removal.

Art and Culture

  • Art installations can be conceptualized as absorbable experiences that engage viewers and allow them to take in the message emotionally and intellectually.
  • Literature often uses absorbable themes to dive deep into society's issues, allowing readers to ponder and reflect on important subjects.

Origin of 'absorbable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'absorbere', which combines 'ab-' (from) and 'sorbere' (to suck up).
  • It first appeared in English in the early 17th century, primarily used in scientific contexts.

The word 'absorbable' originated from the verb 'absorb' which came from Middle French 'absorber' and Latin 'absorbฤ“re', meaning 'to swallow up'. In the medical context, 'absorbable' refers to materials that can be assimilated or broken down by the body.


See also: absorb, absorbed, absorbent, absorber, absorbing, absorbingly, absorption.