SPONGES Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

sponges 1 of 2

noun

plural of sponge

as in parasites

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

sponges

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of sponge

as in drinks

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in begs

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

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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 sponges

Noun

Besides cleaning, sponges are a useful, inexpensive tool in the garden, closet, craft area, and beyond. —

Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 1 June 2026 Soak sponges and dishcloths in a solution of 1/4 cup bleach and a gallon of water daily for 5 minutes to keep them clean and germ-free. —

Emerson Latham, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 May 2026 Biodegradable sponges are a great option for adding to your compost pile. —

Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 27 May 2026 And for less studied organisms, such as sea sponges, that timeline can be even longer. —

K. R. Callaway, Scientific American, 24 May 2026 Dedicated studio spaces were created within the facility so Kongo could paint interior components by hand with airbrushes, brushes, and sponges. —

Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sponges

Noun

The parasites prefer humid areas where temperatures are at least 77 F (25 C), and those days are increasing further north.

— ABC News, ABC News, 11 June 2026
Many arrived underweight, with skin issues, extensive fur loss (suspected to be from being exposed to the weather and outdoor elements) and significant external and internal parasites.

— Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 9 June 2026