Sorptivity (S) is the fundamental variable controlling the early infiltration process. Besides soil properties, soil initial water content (θ_i) and (or) matric pressure (h_i) are key factors determining extent of S. Assessment of interrelationship among S, h_i, and soil properties can provide a considerable insight into understanding the behaviour of dry soils to rainfall or irrigation water. This study was conducted to evaluate relationship between S and some selected soil parametric and morphometric properties within a range of h_i. Sixteen undisturbed soil samples (5 cm id, 5 cm length) were taken from the topsoil (0–15 cm) of a paddy soil with clay texture. Sorptivity was measured with a mini-disc infiltrometer on the samples equilibrated at h, ranging from −20 to −1500 kPa. A parameter (η), representing the relationship between S and h_i, was introduced. Correlation analysis was conducted between η and selected soil morphometric and parametric properties. Soil structure and clay content appeared the most important soil attributes influencing S–h_i relation between −200 and −1500 kPa. The results provided a fundamental understanding on S–h_i–soil properties interrelations in a clay soil. The methodology developed in this study can be used to evaluate S–h_i relationship across different soils and scales.