absorptive
UK[əbˈzɔːptɪv]US[əbˈzɔːrptɪv]
adj
having the ability or tendency to absorb
adj
relating to or functioning in absorption
Morpheme Breakdown
ab
sorb
ive
ab
away, from
sorb
to suck in
ive
having the nature or quality of
Etymology
the word 'absorptive' is built upon the latin verb sorbere, meaning "to suck in or swallow." the prefix ab- intensifies this action, giving the combined form absorbere the sense of "to suck away from" or "to swallow up." the suffix -ive, of latin origin via french, is added to form an adjective, shifting the meaning from the action itself to the possessing of that action's quality. thus, the literal "having the quality of sucking away" evolved into the modern abstract sense of "having the ability to take in or assimilate."
Analysis
Structure: ab + sorb + ive
ab- (latin, prefix meaning "away, from"), sorb (latin root from sorbere, meaning "to suck in"), -ive (latin suffix via french, forming adjectives meaning "having the nature or quality of")
Examples
the absorptive properties of the sponge make it ideal for cleaning up spills.
the small intestine has a highly absorptive surface for nutrients.
charcoal is often used in filters for its absorptive capacity.