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Absorption Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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absorption

[ษ™bหˆsษ”หpสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

scientific research

The process by which one thing absorbs or is absorbed by another, such as a liquid, light, or sound.

Synonyms

assimilation, ingestion, uptake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
absorption

Commonly used in scientific contexts to describe how a substance, energy, or information is taken in and retained. Usually, it refers to physical or physiological processes.

  • The sponge's absorption of water was immediate
  • The medication was tested for its rate of absorption into the bloodstream
assimilation

Often used in both scientific and social contexts. In science, it refers to how substances are incorporated into the cells after digestion. In social settings, it means how individuals or groups adopt another culture or system effectively.

  • The assimilation of nutrients occurs in the small intestine
  • Cultural assimilation can be challenging for immigrants
ingestion

Primarily used in biological or medical contexts to describe the act of taking in food or other substances into the body through the mouth.

  • Ingestion of contaminated food can lead to food poisoning
  • The doctor advised against the ingestion of foreign objects
uptake

Used in scientific contexts to describe how cells or organisms take in substances from their environment, but can also refer to how quickly a person understands or adopts new information.

  • The roots of plants are responsible for the uptake of water and nutrients
  • His quick uptake on new technologies impressed the team

Examples of usage

  • The absorption of nutrients by the body is essential for good health.
  • The absorption of water by the sponge was quick and efficient.
Context #2 | Noun

economics

The process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas.

Synonyms

assimilation, incorporation, integration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
absorption

Use 'absorption' when talking about something being taken in or soaked up, usually in physical or biological contexts, such as liquids, nutrients, or light.

  • The paper towel's absorption of the spilled juice was impressive.
  • Calcium absorption is an important process for maintaining strong bones.
assimilation

'Assimilation' is best used when speaking about the process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas, or when different cultures are being integrated and becoming similar.

  • The assimilation of immigrant cultures can enrich the society.
  • His rapid assimilation of complex concepts amazed the professor.
integration

'Integration' should be used when describing the process of combining different parts into a whole, especially in social, technological, or organizational settings.

  • The integration of different software systems can streamline operations.
  • Social integration programs help immigrants feel more at home.
incorporation

'Incorporation' is ideal for referring to the act of including or integrating something as part of a whole, particularly in legal, business, or academic contexts.

  • The incorporation of new safety protocols has improved worker protection.
  • The companyโ€™s incorporation was completed last month.

Examples of usage

  • The absorption of new technologies by the workforce is crucial for the company's growth.
  • The absorption of market trends is necessary for successful investment decisions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, absorption refers to the process where light or other waves are taken in by a material, such as how a black shirt absorbs sunlight.
  • In biology, absorption describes how nutrients from food are taken into the bloodstream through the walls of the intestines.
  • In chemistry, it's crucial in processes like gas absorption, where one substance becomes incorporated into another.

Psychology

  • Cognitive absorption relates to how fully someone can engage with new information โ€“ the deeper the absorption, the more they learn.
  • Absorption in psychological terms can indicate a state of complete focus or immersion in an activity, such as reading or listening to music.
  • Individuals with high levels of absorption might find it easier to learn new languages or skills due to their capacity for deep concentration.

Literature

  • Many authors use the concept of absorption in their works to express characters' emotional or sensory experiences, illustrating how they 'take in' their environments.
  • Poets often describe moments of deep absorption in nature, comparing it to the way a flower absorbs sunlight and nutrients.
  • The term appears in classic literature to convey themes of learning, growth, and the transformative power of knowledge.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, scenes depicting characters who are absorbed in a book or art often highlight their escape from reality, suggesting the power of fiction.
  • Video games often use the concept of absorption as players 'absorb' new skills or power-ups, enhancing their abilities.
  • Popular science shows have explored how the absorption of ideas during various historical events can shape public movements and cultures.

Origin of 'absorption'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'absorbere', which means 'to swallow up'. It combines 'ab-' meaning 'from' and 'sorbere' meaning 'to suck'.
  • Absorption has been a part of the English language since the early 15th century, indicating its long presence in discussions about eating or learning.
  • Initially used in scientific contexts, the word evolved to describe both physical and intellectual processes.

The word 'absorption' originates from the Latin word 'absorptio', meaning a sucking in or swallowing up. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe the process of something being taken in or soaked up by another substance. Over time, 'absorption' has come to be a widely used term in various fields, from science to economics, highlighting the concept of assimilation and integration.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,729, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.