sponge 1 of 2

noun

ˈspənj How to pronounce sponge (audio)
Definition of spongenext
as in parasite
a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return finally told the sponge to move out of their house and to get a job

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

sponge

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to absorb
to take in (something liquid) through small openings the ground quickly sponged up the much-needed rain

Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in to beg
to live by relying on someone else's generosity or hospitality without sharing in the cost or responsibility she's been sponging off of her friends while she tries to land an entry-level job on Wall Street

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun sponge differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of sponge are leech, parasite, sycophant, and toady. While all these words mean "a usually obsequious flatterer or self-seeker," sponge stresses the parasitic laziness, dependence, and opportunism of the cadger.

a shiftless sponge, always looking for a handout

When might leech be a better fit than sponge?

The words leech and sponge are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, leech stresses persistence in clinging to or bleeding another for one's own advantage.

a leech living off his family and friends

When can parasite be used instead of sponge?

The meanings of parasite and sponge largely overlap; however, parasite applies to one who clings to a person of wealth, power, or influence or is useless to society.

a jet-setter with an entourage of parasites

When would sycophant be a good substitute for sponge?

The synonyms sycophant and sponge are sometimes interchangeable, but sycophant adds to this a strong suggestion of fawning, flattery, or adulation.

a powerful prince surrounded by sycophants

In what contexts can toady take the place of sponge?

In some situations, the words toady and sponge are roughly equivalent. However, toady emphasizes the servility and snobbery of the self-seeker.

cultivated leaders of society and became their toady

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sponge
Noun
Using magnesium metal and hydrogen gas as its two electrodes, the system acts like a chemical sponge. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 15 May 2026 Orchid roots are like sponges, which should be fully saturated to keep foliage well-hydrated and flowers blooming. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 14 May 2026
Verb
Dip a soft brush or sponge into the solution and gently scrub. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Apr. 2026 Dip a soft brush or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the surface. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sponge
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sponge
  1. parasite
  2. absorb
  3. beg
  4. drink
Noun
  • After being tested for airtightness, helium was pumped into the glass enclosure through thin tubes inserted into the lead lining, to protect the document from corrosive oxygen and parasites.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 May 2026
  • Always wear gloves before handling nests to protect yourself from any germs or parasites.
    — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 9 May 2026
Definition of parasite
Verb
  • From a slew of acids, designed to slough off dead skin cells, to masks that help draw and absorb oil, the sheer array can be overwhelming.
    — Diana Tsui, Footwear News, 15 May 2026
  • Lay tomato and cucumber slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
    — Midwest Living, Midwest Living, 15 May 2026
Definition of absorb
Verb
  • Adonis yells as Gillis begs him to pull over.
    — Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 15 May 2026
  • Beyond a few days with warmer temperatures, the real sign that spring has arrived is when my nose starts to run, my throat begins to itch, and my eyes are begging for eye drops every morning.
    — Carly Totten, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 May 2026
Definition of beg
Verb
  • Food and drink Amada was a standout.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026
  • The new ranch comes with a coffee-drinking porch (mandatory), but it is weathered, rustic and needs work.
    — Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 15 May 2026
Definition of drink

Phrases Containing sponge

Browse Nearby Words

spoliators
sponge
sponged
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Cite this Entry

“Sponge.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sponge. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on sponge

Nglish: Translation of sponge for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sponge

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