What is the meaning of imbibing?

noun

• The act of consuming liquids.
  • synonyms: drinking, imbibition

verb

• Take in, also metaphorically.
  • usage: "The sponge absorbs water well"; "She drew strength from the minister's words"
  • synonyms: absorb, suck, imbibe, soak up, sop up, suck up, draw, take in, take up
• Take (gas, light or heat) into a solution.
  • synonyms: assimilate, imbibe
• Take in liquids.
  • usage: "The patient must drink several liters each day"; "The children like to drink soda"
  • synonyms: drink, imbibe
• Receive into the mind and retain.
  • usage: "Imbibe ethical principles"
  • synonyms: imbibe