Dictionary.net

The condensation of gases, liquids, or dissolved substances on the surfaces of solids. It includes adsorptive phenomena of bacteria and viruses as well as of tissues treated with exogenous drugs and chemicals.

The adhesion of a gas to the surface of a solid; adhesion of a liquid or gaseous substance to the more solid particles in a solution, the action by which a colloid particle attracts other substances.

The concentration of a substance in solution in a liquid on a surface in contact with the surface of another phase; the adhesion of molecules to solid bodies.

The power possessed by certain substances of retaining in their surface, gases, liquids, and solids, either in solution or in the colloidal state. [Lat.]