English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word sponge in English

What does sponge mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

sponge

US /spʌndʒ/
UK /spʌndʒ/
"sponge" picture

Noun

1.

a piece of a soft, light, porous substance, typically cellulose or a synthetic polymer, that is absorbent and used for washing and cleaning.

Example:
•
Please wipe the counter with a damp sponge.
•
She used a natural sea sponge for bathing.
Synonym:
pad loofah
2.

a person who lives off other people by continually asking for money or food without offering anything in return.

Example:
•
He's a real sponge, always asking for money.
•
Don't be a sponge; try to earn your own living.
Synonym:
parasite freeloader scrounger cadger leech

Verb

1.

to absorb (liquid or information) with a sponge or spongelike action.

Example:
•
The cloth will sponge up the spilled water.
•
He's good at sponging up new information quickly.
Synonym:
absorb soak up mop up take in
2.

to live off other people by continually asking for money or food without offering anything in return.

Example:
•
He's always sponging off his parents.
•
Don't let him sponge off you.
Synonym:
freeload scrounge cadge leech
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Related Word:
sponge bath sponge cake