Definition of sponge

The origin of the word "sponge" dates back to ancient Greece. The Greek word "σπόγγος" (spongos) referred to a type of sea sponge used for cleaning and bathing. The Latin word "spongia" was borrowed from Greek and retained the same meaning. In the 14th century, the Middle English word "sponge" emerged, initially referring specifically to the porous marine animal. Over time, the term expanded to include objects made to mimic the sea sponge's absorption properties, such as kitchen sponges for cleaning and artists' sponges for applying paint. Today, the word "sponge" encompasses a range of meanings, from the natural marine organism to various synthetic and adaptive materials.