noun: primitive multicellular marine animal whose porous body is supported by a fibrous skeletal framework; usually occurs in sessile colonies
noun: a porous mass of interlacing fibers the forms the internal skeleton of various marine animals and usable to absorb water or any porous rubber or cellulose product similarly used
noun: someone able to acquire new knowledge and skills rapidly and easily
Example: "She soaks up foreign languages like a sponge"
noun: a follower who hangs around a host (without benefit to the host) in hope of gain or advantage
verb: gather sponges, in the ocean
verb: wipe with a sponge, so as to clean or moisten
verb: soak up with a sponge
verb: erase with a sponge; as of words on a blackboard