1. the process of absorbing or taking in something, especially nutrients, gases, or information
Usage: often used in scientific or medical contexts
2. understanding or comprehension, especially the speed at which someone grasps something
Usage: informal; often in the phrase ‘quick on the uptake’ or ‘slow on the uptake’

Examples

• The plant’s uptake of carbon dioxide increases during photosynthesis.
• Calcium uptake is essential for strong bone development.
• The drug’s uptake by brain cells was measured in the study.
• She’s always quick on the uptake when learning new concepts.
• He was slow on the uptake and didn’t understand the joke.
• The uptake of oxygen by muscle tissue varies with exercise intensity.