adsorb

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ædˈzɔːrb/

KK: /ædˈzɔrb/

transitive verb

Definition

To take in or hold onto a substance on the surface of another material, often in a way that forms a layer.

Example

The material can adsorb water vapor from the air.

Tense Forms

Past: adsorbed

Past Participle: adsorbed

Conversation

Did you know that certain materials can adsorb pollutants from water?

Really? That's fascinating! How does that work?

Well, they have a surface that captures the particles, making the water cleaner.

Wow, I had no idea! That sounds like a great solution for environmental issues.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

attach

absorb

collect

Antonyms

release

detach

expel

Root Explanation

Adsorb is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "sorbere" (meaning to swallow or absorb). The word describes the process of a substance adhering to the surface of another, as if being 'swallowed' by it.

Memory Tip

Think of a substance 'swallowing' ('sorbere') something 'to' its surface ('ad-') — that's how adsorb means to adhere to a surface.

Visually Confused Words

disorb