Synonyms of sponges

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• parasites
• leeches
• spongers
• dependents
• henchmen
• freeloaders
• hangers-on
• free riders
• moochers
• bloodsuckers
• misers
• idlers
• satellites
• deadbeats
• toadies
• sycophants
• lackeys
• stooges
• yes-men
• skinflints
• tightwads
• pikers
• cheapskates
• flunkies
• scrooges

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• supporters
• benefactors
• philanthropists

sponges

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of sponge

1

as in drinks

to take in (something liquid) through small openings

the ground quickly sponged up the much-needed rain

Synonyms & Similar Words

• drinks
• absorbs
• swallows
• soaks (up)
• imbibes
• sips
• sucks (up)
• takes up
• gulps
• slurps
• quaffs
• swills
• swigs
• guzzles

2

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• begs
• leeches
• freeloads
• mooches
• uses
• exploits

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sponges

Noun

Here are the places to avoid using a Magic Eraser and other similar melamine sponges. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026

This $8 find keeps utensils in their place (literally), and this sink organizer has a spot for brushes, sponges, dish soap, and even drains water back into the sink for zero mess. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 June 2026

Hang towels, bath mats, and washcloths, loofahs, or sponges to air-dry thoroughly after each use since damp towels can encourage mold growth. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 22 June 2026

Not all makeup sponges are created equal. — Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 15 June 2026

The sculptures are made with a pH-neutral artificial reef compound that allows coral, sponges, and biomass to settle safely on them. — Megan Margulies, Travel + Leisure, 14 June 2026

Don't leave dirty dishes or damp dishcloths and sponges in the kitchen sink. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 9 June 2026