A hybrid absorber is disclosed for a closed absorption cycle apparatus. The hybrid absorber is comprised of a non-adiabatic section plus an adiabatic spray section in that order, with absorbent solution and vapor supplied sequentially to them. The spray section preferably also includes a non-adiabatic spray cooler. Coolant is supplied to the non-adiabatic absorber and the cooler either in parallel or in series, countercurrently to the absorbent.