French word

éponge

Pronunciation

IPA/epɔ̃ʒ/

Meaning

  • feminine nounsponge

Example

J'utilise une éponge pour laver la vaisselle.

I use a sponge to wash the dishes.

Illustration for éponge (sponge)

More examples

J'achète une éponge jetable pour le pique-nique.

I buy a disposable sponge for the picnic.

Core concept

A soft, hole-filled material that absorbs water and soap while its surface scrubs away grime.

Common phrases

  • éponge jetable

    disposable sponge

  • éponge de cuisine

    kitchen sponge

  • éponge naturelle

    natural sponge

Similar words

essuie-tout: A disposable paper roll for wiping up water and oil.
torchon: A thick kitchen cloth for drying dishes, hands, and surfaces.
lavette: A small cloth for drying dishes and wiping away light dirt.
seau: A deep container for carrying or soaking items in water or detergent.

Definition in French

Objet ou morceau de matière poreuse, naturel ou artificiel, employé pour absorber des liquides et frotter des surfaces, surtout pour laver la vaisselle.

Word origin

The French noun éponge developed from Old French esponge and Latin spongia, which goes back to Greek spongos, meaning sea sponge.

Usage tips

  • The final e in éponge is silent, while the final ge has the sound of the s in measure rather than a hard g.

Related words

  • épongerwipe upverb
  • serviette-épongeterry towelnoun

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