noun/verbpl: sponges (plural of sponge)
esponjas
1. Plural of sponge; porous, absorbent marine organisms or synthetic materials used for cleaning
She bought natural sponges for washing the dishes.
Ela comprou esponjas naturais para lavar os pratos.
2. Third person singular present tense of the verb 'to sponge'; to clean or wipe with a sponge
He sponges down the deck every morning.
Ele limpa o convés com uma esponja todas as manhãs.
3. Third person singular of 'to sponge'; to live off others' generosity; to mooch
She sponges off her wealthy relatives.
Ela vive às custas de seus parentes ricos.
In Brazilian culture, natural sea sponges are valued for their durability and eco-friendliness, while synthetic sponges are widely used in kitchens. The term 'esponja' is used both for literal cleaning implements and metaphorically to describe someone who absorbs information easily or who takes advantage of others' generosity. In American English, 'sponge' as a verb meaning to mooch is common in informal speech.
NYC Slang
moochers; freeloaders (when referring to people who sponge off others)
Related Idioms & Phrases
throw in the sponge (or towel) - to give up or surrender
sponge off someone - to depend on someone else for money or support
sponge something up - to absorb or soak up liquid
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