absorbent

adjective

ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt How to pronounce absorbent (audio)
-ˈzȯr-
variants or less commonly absorbant
Synonyms of absorbentnext
: able to absorb
as absorbent as a sponge
absorbent noun
or less commonly absorbant

Synonyms of absorbent

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Examples of absorbent in a Sentence

highly absorbent material that is really good for wiping off automobiles
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The absorbent cork protects your surfaces and satisfyingly slides down the table when someone needs a reminder. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 26 Aug. 2026 The plush chenille gives your feet a soft spot to land after stepping out of the shower, while the absorbent fibers help keep water off your floor — the rubber backing helps prevent the mat from shifting around, too. — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026 In addition to being absorbent and quick to dry, this towel is compact and fits in most bags. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 Aug. 2026 Here’s how to wash towels properly for softer, more absorbent results. — Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for absorbent

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absorbent was in 1694

Rhymes for absorbent

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Browse Nearby Words

absorbency
absorbent
absorbent paper
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absorbent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absorbent. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

absorbent

adjective
ab·​sor·​bent əb-ˈsȯr-bənt How to pronounce absorbent (audio)
-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 How to pronounce absorbent (audio)
: able to absorb
absorbent gauze
absorbent noun
also absorbant
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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