Absorbable: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.