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adj

absorbent

uhb-SAW-bnt

Absorbent (adj) means Able to soak up liquid easily. Example: “Choose an absorbent material for the baby's changing mat.”

adj
1
Able to soak up liquid easily.
"Choose an absorbent material for the baby's changing mat."
noun
1
A substance used specifically for soaking up liquid.
"Kitty litter works well as a cheap absorbent for spills."

How to use absorbent

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes something that soaks up liquid effectively, like a sponge or paper towel.

Common pairings
absorbent material highly absorbent absorbent paper

Word forms

more absorbent comparative, absorbents plural, most absorbent superlative

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Test yourself on “absorbent” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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Choose an _____ material for the baby's changing mat.

Etymology

From Latin absorbens, the present participle of absorbeo, "to absorb."

Origin: Latin

absorptive absorbent material

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “absorbent” mean?

The word “absorbent” means able to soak up liquid easily. In plain terms, describes something that soaks up liquid effectively, like a sponge or paper towel.

How do you pronounce “absorbent”?

“Absorbent” is pronounced uhb-SAW-bnt (/æbˈsɔɹ.bn̩t/ in IPA).

How do you use “absorbent” in a sentence?

Here is “absorbent” used in a sentence: “Choose an absorbent material for the baby's changing mat.”

What part of speech is “absorbent”?

Depending on how it is used, “absorbent” can be an adjective and a noun.

Where does the word “absorbent” come from?

The word “absorbent” comes from Latin. From Latin absorbens, the present participle of absorbeo, "to absorb.".

How many meanings does “absorbent” have?

“Absorbent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: able to soak up liquid easily.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial