1.
If a soft or dry material soaks up a liquid, the liquid goes into the substance.
The cells will promptly start to ~ moisture.
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P
2.
If you ~ the atmosphere in a place that you are visiting, you observe or get involved in the way of life there, because you enjoy it or are interested in it. (INFORMAL)
Keaton comes here once or twice a year to ~ the atmosphere.
= absorb
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P
3.
If something soaks up something such as money or other resources, it uses a great deal of money or other resources.
Defence soaks up forty per cent of the budget...
PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)