absorption absorption /əbˈzɔːrpʃən/

noun

1. () (chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid  ( soaking up , absorption )
   (chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid
     The sponge's absorption of water amazed the scientists.
   The sponge's absorption of water amazed the scientists.
   
2. () (physics) the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium  ( absorption )
   (physics) the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium
    The absorption of photons by atoms or molecules
   the absorption of photons by atoms or molecules
   
3. The mental state of being preoccupied by something  ( absorption , engrossment , preoccupancy , preoccupation )
   the mental state of being preoccupied by something
   
4. Complete attention; intense mental effort  ( absorption , engrossment , immersion , concentration )
   complete attention; intense mental effort
   
5. The process of absorbing nutrients into the body after digestion  ( absorption , assimilation )
   the process of absorbing nutrients into the body after digestion
   
6. The social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another  ( absorption , assimilation )
   the social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another