imbibe - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
imbibe Word Meanings
- to drink something, especially alcohol
- to absorb ideas or knowledge
- to receive or take in (information)
imbibe Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
imbibe Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪmˈbaɪb/
US
/ɪmˈbaɪb/
imbibe Word Etymology
im- (in) + bibe (to drink) from Latin. Originated from Latin 'imbibere', influenced by Old French, arriving in English in the 14th century. Imagine someone eagerly absorbing a beverage, representing both the physical act of drinking and the metaphorical sense of taking in knowledge like a thirsty sponge.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Imbibe means to drink something, especially alcohol, but it also means to absorb ideas, knowledge, or information. In physical use you can say you imbibe a glass of wine, yet the metaphorical sense is far more common in writing: to imbibe new ideas after a lecture or to imbibe the atmosphere of a city. The word comes from Latin imbibere (to drink in) formed from in- plus bibere, entering English in the 14th century under Old French influence. It tends to appear in literary or formal contexts rather than everyday speech. Learners should not confuse it with merely swallowing; imbibe implies internalization and active reception.
Usage Reminders
- Imbibe is primarily a literary or formal option for internalizing knowledge or atmosphere.
- Use drink for beverages, not for ideas.
- Collocate with ideas, knowledge, culture, or atmosphere.
- Typically appears in written or spoken formal contexts; it is less common in casual conversation.
- Past tense: imbibed; present participle: imbibing.
Common Misconceptions
- It only ever means drinking; in fact, its metaphorical sense is common and important.
- It is interchangeable with drink when talking about ideas or knowledge, which is not true.
- It is always formal or literary; it can appear in everyday writing but is more restrained.
- It describes physical consumption rather than internalization; choose absorb or learn for the latter.
- It implies intoxication or drunkenness in all contexts; usually it does not.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often reserve imbibe for formal or literary contexts when talking about taking in information; in casual speech, people opt for absorb or take in ideas. Learners may overuse imbibe with everyday activities or misinterpret it as simply 'to drink'.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: imbibe ideas, imbibe knowledge, imbibe culture.
- Prefer imbibe for formal or literary contexts; use absorb or learn otherwise.
- Note that it can take objects like information, atmosphere, or atmosphere of a place.
- Practice tense: imbibed (past), imbibing (present participle).
- Pair with adjectives like eagerly, thoroughly, deeply to convey intensity.
- Read authors who use imbibe to see context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'imbibe'?
A.To walk quickly
B.To sing loudly
C.To sleep deeply
D.To consume liquids by drinking
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'imbibe' correctly?
A.She danced all night at the party.
B.They played basketball in the park.
C.I read a book at the library.
D.He imbibe a large glass of water after the workout.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'imbibe':
A.Spill
B.Evaporate
C.Skip
D.Ingest
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the opposite word of 'imbibe':
A.Swallow
B.Refuse
C.Consume
D.Gulp
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone likely 'imbibe'?
A.Taking a sip of water
B.Going for a run
C.Cooking a meal
D.Studying for an exam
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App