1. readily absorbing moisture from the air
Usage: scientific; chemistry

Examples

• Salt is hygroscopic and will clump together in humid weather.
• The hygroscopic material absorbed water vapor from the atmosphere.
• Honey is naturally hygroscopic, which helps preserve it.
• Silica gel packets contain hygroscopic crystals to prevent moisture damage.
• The hygroscopic properties of the substance made it useful as a desiccant.
• Cotton fibers are hygroscopic and can absorb up to 25% of their weight in water.