absorbed in thought
Fully and deeply engrossed in a thought or idea, often to such a degree as to be unaware of or insensitive to the outside world. It's no use trying to talk to Helen when she's absorbed in thought like that; it's as if we don't even exist!
be absorbed by (something)
To have all of one's attention, interest, or identity completely dominated by or engrossed in something. I was so absorbed by the movie that I didn't even notice you coming in! He is so absorbed by his work that he doesn't have enough time for his family anymore.
absorb (something/someone) in(to)
1. To integrate into a new environment or situation. At least the new company has been able to absorb all of the old employees into its corporate structure
2. To draw or pull a liquid into a porous item. The paper towel quickly absorbed the liquid into itself.
absorb (oneself) in
To occupy or preoccupy oneself completely with activity or pursuit. Greg absorbed himself in video games every day after school. I wanted to impress Juliet, so I absorbed myself in music by her favorite band.
absorb (something) with
To draw or pull a liquid into a porous item. I had to absorb the water from the overflowing toilet with large towels to keep it from leaking through the floor.
absorb oneself in someone or something
Fig. [for someone] to become very interested or preoccupied with something or someone else's interests. Tom would often absorb himself in his children's activities on weekends.
absorb someone in(to) something
[of a person or a group of people] to include someone in all the activities of the group; to integrate someone into something. The club absorbed the new members into the organization.
absorb something in(to) something
[of matter or substance] to draw something into itself. The sponge absorbed all the moisture into its fibers.
absorb something with something
to soak up a fluid with something. Henry absorbed the spilled milk with a sponge.