sponge
UK: spʌndʒ | US: spʌndʒ
n. a porous, absorbent marine animal or artificial material used for cleaning or soaking up liquids
vt. to clean or absorb with a sponge
vi. to live parasitically by relying on others for resources
The word "sponge" traces back to the Latin "spongia," derived from the Greek "spongos," referring to the marine creature. The Greek term likely originated from a pre-Greek Mediterranean language, reflecting the ancient use of natural sponges for cleaning. Over time, the word expanded to include artificial absorbent materials and metaphorical uses (e.g., "sponging off others"). The silent "e" in Modern English preserves the word's historical spelling.
She used a sponge to wipe the spilled juice off the table.
Synthetic sponges are cheaper than natural ones.
He sponged the paint off the wall before repainting.
Stop sponging off your friends and get a job!
The sponge absorbed all the water in the sink.