imbibere

Imbibere is a Latin verb meaning to drink in or to drink up; in figurative use it can mean to absorb or assimilate, such as ideas, customs, or influences.

Etymology: The term derives from in- (in, into) and bibere (to drink). It passed into English through Old French imbiber and Latin via medieval usage, giving rise to the modern verb imbibe and related forms.

Usage in Latin and English: In classical Latin, imbibere literally means to drink in; in English it is primarily used as “to drink a liquid” or, more broadly, to absorb an idea, culture, or information.

In science: In botany and physiology, imbibition is the uptake of water by dry seeds or tissues, causing swelling and often initiating germination. The process is largely physical, driven by capillary action and osmotic gradients.

Related terms: imbiber (one who imbibes), imbibing (the act of drinking or absorbing), and imbibition (a botanical term for water uptake). The word remains common in both literal and metaphorical senses.