sop up

(verb) take in, also metaphorically. Synonyms: absorb, suck, imbibe, soak up, sop up, suck up, draw, take in, take up. Examples: "The sponge absorbs water well." "She drew strength from the minister's words."

(verb) take up as if with a sponge. Synonyms: take in, sop up, suck in, take up.