absorb 的涵义和用法

absorb [əbˈzɔːb; əbˈsɔːb] 这个词，拆解一下，就是前缀 ab- 加上词根 -sorb-， 词根 sorb 本身也是一个单词，就是“吸”的意思。 to take up and hold by either adsorption or absorption.

至于这里的前缀 ab-， 在 absorb 这个词起强调的作用。

absorb 做动词，基本义：“吸收”  If something absorbs a liquid, gas, or other substance, it soaks it up or take it in. 例如：

• Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air and moisture from the soil.
• A household radiator absorbs energy in the form of electric and releases it in the form of heat.

absorb 由基本义引申出其它一些涵义：

1. If something absorbs a force or shock, it reduces its effect. “使缓冲”。例如：
   1. When playing basketball, you need wear footwear that can absorb impact of the foot striking the ground.
2. If a system or society absorbs changes, effects, or costs, it is able to deal with them. “能应付”。 例如：
   1. The banks would be forced to absorb large losses.
3. If something absorbs you, it interests you a great deal and takes up all your attention and energy.  “使...专注”。例如：
   1. A interesting book absorbed that little child.
   2. He has an interest that absorbs him completely.
4. If you absorb information, you learn and understand it.  “理解”。 例如：
   1. He absorbs only some information in the guideline.

absorbed. 形容词，涵义是 having one’s attention wholly engaged or occupied. “专注的”。 例如：

1. I was so absorbed in my own problems that I forget my keys. 
2. That boy was absorbed in a novel. 

需要注意的是，当 absorbed 做形容词时，后面通常跟介词 in 引入一个名词。