'absorb' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'absorbere,' where 'ab-' meant 'from' and 'sorbere' meant 'to suck.'

'absorbere' transformed into the Old French word 'absorber,' and eventually became the modern English word 'absorb' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to suck in or swallow,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to take in or soak up' and 'to fully engage.'