Sponger

usgb/ˈspʌndʒər/
noun

A person who lives off other people by always using their things or borrowing money, but never provides or pays for anything themselves.

He's been living with his sister for two years now, what a sponger!
Visual representation of "sponger" - A person who lives off other people by always using their things or borrowing money, but never provides or pays for anything themselves.

Often appears as...

  • total sponger
  • money sponger

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "sponger"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

The term 'sponger' has a negative judgment, suggesting someone is exploiting generosity.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Don't be such a sponger; start paying your own way.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not for Politeness

Calling someone a 'sponger' can be rude, so use it cautiously and in informal settings.

Illustration for Not for Politeness
I didn't want to sound rude by calling him a sponger.
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Colloquial Usage

'Sponger' is often used in everyday conversation rather than formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
At the pub, they complained about the office sponger.
Visual representation of the word "Sponger"

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