absorption Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid
    soaking up.
  2. noun (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
  3. noun the social process of absorbing one cultural group into harmony with another
    assimilation.
  4. noun the process of absorbing nutrients into the body after digestion
    assimilation.
  5. noun complete attention; intense mental effort
    immersion; concentration; engrossment.
  6. noun the mental state of being preoccupied by something
    preoccupancy; engrossment; preoccupation.

WordNet

Ab*sorp"tion noun
Etymology
L. absorptio, fr. absorbere. See Absorb.
Definitions
  1. The act or process of absorbing or sucking in anything, or of being absorbed and made to disappear; as, the absorption of bodies in a whirlpool, the absorption of a smaller tribe into a larger.
  2. (Chem. & Physics) An imbibing or reception by molecular or chemical action; as, the absorption of light, heat, electricity, etc.
  3. (Physiol.) In living organisms, the process by which the materials of growth and nutrition are absorbed and conveyed to the tissues and organs.
  4. Entire engrossment or occupation of the mind; as, absorption in some employment.

Webster 1913