Verb
/ˈsoɾβeɾ/
The verb "sorber" primarily means to draw in a liquid or substance by suction, often associated with drinking through a straw or the sound produced while drinking. It can also mean to absorb something, whether liquid or figurative, such as knowledge. The use of "sorber" is fairly common in both oral and written contexts, though it often appears in informal situations, such as conversations about drinking or eating.
Ella suele sorber su bebida con una pajilla.
She usually sips her drink with a straw.
Los niños aprenden a sorber el caldo sin quemarse.
The children learn to sip the broth without burning themselves.
El papel puede sorber la tinta rápidamente.
The paper can absorb the ink quickly.
Although "sorber" doesn't have idioms directly incorporating the verb, it is often used in colloquial expressions related to taking in or absorbing something. Here are a few examples:
Sorber los conocimientos de la vida.
To absorb the knowledge of life.
(Meaning: To learn from life experiences)
No hay que sorber las penas, hay que enfrentarlas.
One shouldn't swallow sorrows; one should face them.
(Meaning: It’s important to confront problems instead of ignoring them)
Sorber la cultura como una esponja.
To soak up culture like a sponge.
(Meaning: To absorb culture thoroughly)
The word "sorber" comes from the Latin word sorbēre, which means "to suck in." The evolution of the term reflects a transition from a Latin base emphasizing the action of sucking to the broader application it has in modern Spanish.
Synonyms: - Chupar (to suck) - Absorber (to absorb)
Antonyms: - Expulsar (to expel) - Derramar (to spill)