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.
The Vampire Diaries actor, 42, and model, 25, were spotted soaking up the sun on the Amalfi Coast on Thursday, July 17. Colson Thayer, People.com, 18 July 2025 Just in May, the singer was on the island with her sister, Halle Bailey and her nephew Halo soaking up the sun. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 18 July 2025 Irina Shayk is soaking up the sun in barely there bikinis while on vacation. Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 17 July 2025 The lackluster cole slaw didn’t do it for me, but the rice was perfect for soaking up the extra sauce and served as a good complement to the ribs. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 July 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 25 Jul. 2025.

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