What is the meaning of soaking up?

noun

• Chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid.
  • synonyms: absorption

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
• Devote (oneself) fully to.
  • usage: "He immersed himself into his studies"
  • synonyms: steep, immerse, engulf, plunge, engross, absorb, soak up