soak up

phrasal verb

soaked up; soaking up; soaks up
1
: to take in (liquid) : absorb
The rag soaked up most of the water.
2
: to enjoy feeling or experiencing (something pleasant) in usually a slow or relaxed way
We went to the beach and soaked up the sun/sunshine all afternoon.
I sat at my table for an hour soaking up the atmosphere of the café.
The performers stood on the stage, soaking up the applause.
3
: to learn and remember (something) quickly
He eagerly soaked up every word she said.
She has an ability to soak up new information very quickly.
4
: to use a large amount of (money, supplies, etc.)
This project is soaking up resources that could be used elsewhere.

Examples of soak up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These cheeky briefs are crafted from a quick-drying fabric that soaks up excess moisture. Malia Griggs, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2025 So, one day in Sac, more than 35,000 fans (assuming no overlap) sat in the stands to soak up sports — the good, the bad and the Go-Go. Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 14 Apr. 2025 Guests could soak up the sounds and reflective conversations on the power of truly powerful sound while lounging on modular sofas by ANDA_BA and listening stools by designer Andu Masebo. Liam Hess, Vogue, 11 Apr. 2025 Nations League has soaked up the narratives and is growing in popularity, despite its young history as an official competition. Felipe Cardenas, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for soak up

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Cite this Entry

“Soak up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soak%20up. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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