absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt 

-ˈzȯr-

variants or less commonly absorbant

: able to absorb

as absorbent as a sponge

absorbent noun

or less commonly absorbant

Synonyms

• bibulous
• spongy
• thirsty

Examples of absorbent in a Sentence

highly absorbent material that is really good for wiping off automobiles

Recent Examples on the Web

This clever headband has a wide, absorbent silhouette to stand in the way, all without feeling tight on your scalp or leaving creases in your hair. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 26 Mar. 2025

Some also feature absorbent ingredients like charcoal and clay, which dermatologists agree can effectively soak up excess oil and give roots a fresher feel. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 25 Mar. 2025

DIYers can punch holes in a plastic bottle or create a wicking system with a container of water and strips of absorbent material such as yarn or cloth. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2025

These towels are truly sturdy, absorbent, and consistently reliable. —Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 2 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin absorbent-, absorbens, present participle of absorbēre "to absorb"

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for absorbent

• adsorbent
• immunosorbent
• sorbent

Kids Definition

absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt 

-ˈzȯr-

: able to absorb

as absorbent as a sponge

absorbency

əb-ˈsȯr-bən-sē

-ˈzȯr-

noun

absorbent noun

Medical Definition

absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent

variants also absorbant

-bənt 

: able to absorb

absorbent gauze

absorbent noun

also absorbant