Adolescence /ˌæd

absorb /əbˈzɔːb/ /-ˈzɔːrb/ verb [ T ] TAKE IN
1. to take something in, especially gradually
Plants absorb carbon dioxide.
In cold climates, houses need to have walls that will absorb heat.
Towels absorb moisture.
The drug is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Our countryside is increasingly being absorbed by/into the large cities.
2. to reduce the effect of a physical force, shock or change
The barrier absorbed the main impact of the crash.
absorb /əbˈzɔːb/ /-ˈzɔːrb/ verb [ T ] UNDERSTAND
3. to understand facts or ideas completely and remember them
It's hard to absorb so much information.
absorb /əbˈzɔːb/ /-ˈzɔːrb/ verb [ T ] INTEREST VERY MUCH
4. If someone's work, or a book, film, etc. absorbs them, or they are absorbed in it, their attention is given completely to it
Simon was so absorbed in his book, he didn't even notice me come in.
See also self-absorbed
conserve /kənˈsɜːv/ /-ˈsɝːv/ verb [ T ]
to keep and protect something from damage, change or waste
To conserve electricity, we are cutting down on our central heating.
The nationalists are very keen to conserve their customs and language.
I'm not being lazy - I'm just conserving my energy/strength for later.