1. to gather and hold (a gas, liquid, or dissolved substance) on a surface in a thin layer
Usage: scientific; chemistry

Examples

• Activated charcoal can adsorb toxins from the digestive system.
• The silica gel packets adsorb moisture to keep products dry.
• Clay minerals adsorb water molecules on their surface.
• The catalyst will adsorb the reactant molecules before the reaction occurs.
• Certain materials adsorb pollutants from contaminated water.
• The zeolite filter adsorbs harmful gases from the air.