26984 words

sponge

8 definitions • 8 examples
1
a soft substance that is full of small holes and can absorb a lot of liquid, and is used for washing and cleaning
2
the action of rubbing something or someone with a wet sponge or cloth in order to clean it, him, or her:

Examples:

Give it a sponge with a damp cloth - that will remove the mud stains.
3
a soft cake made with eggs, sugar, and flour and usually a type of fat such as butter
4
to get money, food, etc. from other people, especially in order to live without working:

Examples:

sponging off the state
5
to rub something or someone with a wet sponge or cloth, especially to clean it, him, or her:

Examples:

Most food stains will come off if you sponge the material with a little detergent.
The doctor told me to sponge Erik down with cold water in order to lower his temperature.
6
a substance that is full of holes, soft when wet, and able to absorb a lot of liquid, used for washing and cleaning:

Examples:

[ C ] He wiped off the table with a soapy sponge.
7
to get money, food, or other needs from other people rather than by taking care of yourself, or to live by getting help from other people:

Examples:

[ I ] He’s been sponging off her for years.
8
to wash or clean, esp. by using a wet sponge or cloth:

Examples:

Sponge the stain promptly with cold water.
[ M ] She’s always sponging off the kitchen counter.

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