English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

sponging

Quiz me More like this

Sponging (noun) means the act of wiping, cleaning, or applying something with a sponge. Example: “A quick sponging got most of the stain out.”

noun
1
The act of wiping, cleaning, or applying something with a sponge.
"A quick sponging got most of the stain out."
2
The act of living off someone else's money or generosity.
"His constant sponging off friends finally wore out their patience."

How to use sponging

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither cleaning something with a sponge, or freeloading off someone.

Common pairings
sponging off relatives
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like sponging.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Plural
spongings
Test yourself on “sponging” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

A quick _____ got most of the stain out.

Rhymes for sponging

See all rhymes for sponging →

Frequently asked questions

What does “sponging” mean?
The word “sponging” means the act of wiping, cleaning, or applying something with a sponge. In plain terms, either cleaning something with a sponge, or freeloading off someone.
How do you use “sponging” in a sentence?
Here is “sponging” used in a sentence: “A quick sponging got most of the stain out.”
What part of speech is “sponging”?
“Sponging” is a noun.
How many meanings does “sponging” have?
“Sponging” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of wiping, cleaning, or applying something with a sponge.