• 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
• verb:   ask for and get free; be a parasite

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