To take in or soak up a liquid or other substance. The sponge can absorb a lot of water.
To take in and understand information or ideas. She tried to absorb all the details of the lecture.
To take in and integrate into a larger entity or system. The company plans to absorb the smaller firm into its operations.
To engage or occupy the attention or interest of someone fully. The novel was so captivating that it absorbed him completely.
To reduce the effect or intensity of something, such as a shock or impact. The airbags are designed to absorb the impact of a collision.
To take in or retain energy such as light, heat, or sound rather than reflecting or transmitting it. Dark colors absorb more heat from sunlight than light colors.
To take over and bear (a cost, loss, or expense) without passing it on to others. The manufacturer agreed to absorb the additional shipping charges.