imbibe
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪmˈbaɪb/
KK: /ɪmˈbaɪb/
intransitive verb
Definition
To drink, especially in a way that involves consuming alcohol.
Example
They decided to imbibe some wine during dinner.
Tense Forms
Past: imbibed
Past Participle: imbibed
Conversation
Are you planning to imbibe anything at the party tonight?
I might have a drink or two, but nothing too crazy.
Sounds good! I usually prefer to imbibe some wine when I celebrate.
Wine is a great choice — it really sets the mood!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
drink
savor
quaff
Antonyms
fast
abstain
refuse
transitive verb
Definition
To take in or absorb something, especially a liquid, as if by drinking; to receive and understand information or ideas.
Example
She likes to imbibe knowledge from various sources to broaden her understanding.
Tense Forms
Past: imbibed
Past Participle: imbibed
Conversation
Have you ever tried to imbibe the culture when you travel?
Definitely! It makes the experience so much richer.
I feel like you really imbibe the local traditions when you do that.
Root Explanation
Imbibe is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "bibere" (meaning to drink). The word describes the act of drinking in or absorbing a liquid.
Memory Tip
Think of 'drinking in' ('in-') a liquid ('bibere') — that's what imbibe means.
Visually Confused Words
reimbibe
limbie
unimbibed
preimbibe
imbe