absorbent

1.1. Absorbing material or substance

A material or substance that takes in and retains liquids, moisture, or other substances.

Synonyms

• absorbent material
• absorber
• absorptive substance

Examples

• The laboratory used an absorbent to collect the spilled liquid.
• Cotton is a natural absorbent used in many cleaning products.

Related Words

• sponge
• porous material
• absorption
• sorption

1.2. Substance used to absorb stomach acid

A substance that absorbs or neutralizes excess acid in the stomach or intestines, such as chalk or magnesia.

Synonyms

• antacid
• acid neutralizer

Examples

• The doctor recommended an absorbent to help neutralize excess stomach acid.

Related Words

• magnesia
• calcium carbonate
• gastric acid
• indigestion

1.3. Liquid used in gas separation

A liquid used in industrial processes to absorb and separate gases or volatile liquids, particularly during oil refining.

Synonyms

• absorbing liquid
• absorption solvent

Examples

• The refinery circulated an absorbent through the system to separate unwanted gases.

Related Words

• gas separation
• solvent
• oil refining
• gas absorption

2.1. Soaking up liquids or moisture

Describes a material or surface that readily takes in and retains liquids or moisture.

Synonyms

• absorptive
• bibulous
• spongy
• porous

Antonyms

• impermeable
• nonabsorbent

Examples

• The paper towels are highly absorbent and soak up spills quickly.
• The fabric is absorbent enough to keep the skin dry.

Related Words

• absorbency
• permeability
• capillary action
• moisture retention

2.2. Capable of drawing in substances

Describes a substance or material that allows liquids or other substances to penetrate and be taken in.

Synonyms

• permeable
• penetrable
• absorptive

Antonyms

• impermeable
• nonabsorbent

Examples

• The absorbent soil allows water to penetrate its surface.
• The porous material is sufficiently absorbent to take in moisture.

Related Words

• penetration
• osmosis
• diffusion
• uptake