absorption

The word “absorption” means the process of taking in and incorporating a substance, such as light, heat, or liquid. In plain terms, the process of soaking something up — light, heat, nutrients — or being completely engrossed mentally.

“Absorption” is pronounced uhb-ZAWP-shn (/æbˈsɔɹp.ʃn̩/ in IPA).

Here is “absorption” used in a sentence: “The dark tiles increase heat absorption in the room.”

“Absorption” is a noun.

The word “absorption” comes from Latin. From Latin absorptio, "a sucking in," based on absorbeo, "to absorb.".

“Absorption” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Absorption” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the process of taking in and incorporating a substance, such as light, heat, or liquid.

Absorption and engrossment can both describe total attention being given to something, and in that sense they are near-synonyms. Absorption additionally has a separate, more literal meaning describing the physical process of taking in a substance such as light, heat, or liquid, which engrossment does not share.

Absorption means a substance is taken into and incorporated throughout another material, such as a sponge absorbing water. Adsorption, by contrast, refers to a substance sticking only to the surface of another material rather than being taken in through it; the two terms describe distinct physical processes despite the similar spelling.

Yes, absorption has a second meaning describing complete engrossment of someone's attention or interest, such as being deeply absorbed in a book. This mental sense exists alongside its more literal, physical meaning.