The Clue
Assumes, as costs (7 letter answer)
The Answer
ABSORBS
Tags
Notes
The answer ABSORBS is rarely seen, appearing only about once every 1200 puzzles.
Related Clues
Assimilates
Learns
Occludes
Rivets
Sponges
Takes in
Sucks up
Works like a sponge
Definition
ABSORB as a verb:
1. become imbued; "The liquids, light, and gases absorb"
2. (absorb, assimilate, ingest, take in) = take up mentally; "he absorbed the knowledge or beliefs of his tribe"
3. (absorb, take over) = take up, as of debts or payments; "absorb the costs for something"
4. (absorb, suck, imbibe, soak up, sop up, suck up, draw, take in, take up) = take in, also metaphorically; "The sponge absorbs water well"; "She drew strength from the minister's words"
5. cause to become one with; "The sales tax is absorbed into the state income tax"
6. (absorb, take in) = suck or take up or in; "A black star absorbs all matter"
7. (steep, immerse, engulf, plunge, engross, absorb, soak up) = engross (oneself) fully; "He immersed himself into his studies"
8. assimilate or take in; "The immigrants were quickly absorbed into society"
9. (absorb, engross, engage, occupy) = engage or engross wholly; "Her interest in butterflies absorbs her completely"