sponge down noun 1verb 1forms 4 noun1 •A quick clean of something (namely the body) with a sponge.When the pack is removed a cold or tepid sponge down should be given and the patient placed in a warm bed. — 1929 verb1 •To clean with a spongeIf your skin is dry and flaky all over, pour a few handfuls of salt in your bath water and sponge down your entire body. When you’re through, slather on the moisturizer. — 1982 formssponged down · sponging down · sponges down · sponge downs