absorption meaning and definition

ABSORPTION noun

Definition of absorption (noun)

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