absorptive

[ ab-sawrp-tiv, -zawrp- ]

adjective

1. able or tending to absorb; absorbent.

Other Words From

• ab·sorptive·ly adverb
• ab·sorptive·ness noun
• nonab·sorptive adjective
• unab·sorptive adjective
• unab·sorptive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of absorptive¹

1655–65; < Latin absorpt- (stem of absorptus absorbed; absorption ) + -ive

Example Sentences

The cause of this absorptive power is still very imperfectly known.

From Project Gutenberg

Considering epithelium from the point of view of function, it may be classified as protective, absorptive or secretory.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus, hydrogen by its absorptive action produces four of the bright lines.

From Project Gutenberg

Heat raises the absorptive power of the fibres and so aids the passage of water from the interior of the cells.

From Project Gutenberg

Why should we find it more difficult to conceive of a tremendous and infinite absorptive element?

From Project Gutenberg