IPA: /ˈspʌn.dʒɪn/
KK: /ˈspɒn.dʒɪn/
A type of protein that helps form the structure of some sponges, making them flexible and strong.
The spongin in the sponge allows it to maintain its shape while being soft to the touch.
Spongin is derived from "spongia" (meaning sponge) in Latin, which refers to the porous, absorbent material found in certain marine organisms. The suffix "-in" is often used in chemistry to denote a substance or compound. Thus, spongin refers to a specific substance derived from sponges.
Think of 'spongia' which means sponge, and remember that 'spongin' is a substance that comes from sponges.