A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Alice spends her days cleaning Lady Jemima’s stinky shoes, sponging her underwear and greasing her long blonde hair.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 26, 2026
Generative AI is developing so quickly that soon the large-language models sponging up information on the internet will run out of content to feed on.
From Seattle Times ● May 13, 2024
Wetlands also act as our planet's kidneys, sponging up excess rainwater to prevent flooding, and filtering out some sediment and contaminants before they can reach springs, creeks, groundwater, ocean.
From Salon ● Mar. 19, 2021
In the movie, it’s easy to identify Kroc as an amoral exploiter, sponging off the labors of Dick and Mac.
From New York Times ● Jun. 6, 2017
Fifty track workers slogged over the course, sponging the mud out of the puddles.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
