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
Blotting Paper Perfect for soaking up excess oil and shine without smudging your makeup or leaving any residue behind, blotting sheets are an easy, lightweight essential that’ll fit easily in any bag or pocket.
—
Gregory Robinson, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2025
The towels will help soak up some of the moisture and can be tossed in the dryer at the end.
—Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 31 May 2025
Serve the dish over rice or pasta to soak up the cheesy sauce.
—Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2025
During summer, rattlesnakes typically hide out in brush, under rocks or in holes during the heat of the day and come out late in the afternoon or early evening to soak up the ground’s residual heat or to sunbathe.
—Caleb Lunetta, Mercury News, 27 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for soak up
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Gregory Robinson, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2025
The towels will help soak up some of the moisture and can be tossed in the dryer at the end.
—Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 31 May 2025
Serve the dish over rice or pasta to soak up the cheesy sauce.
—Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2025
During summer, rattlesnakes typically hide out in brush, under rocks or in holes during the heat of the day and come out late in the afternoon or early evening to soak up the ground’s residual heat or to sunbathe.
—Caleb Lunetta, Mercury News, 27 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for soak up
Cite this Entry
“Soak up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soak%20up. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.
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