Phrasal verbs consists of a basic verb + another word or words. The two or three words that make up a phrasal verb form a short 'phrase' - which is why we call them 'phrasal verbs'.
Phrasal Verb:
sponge something up
Meaning:
to absorb or take up moisture, as with a sponge.
Example:
I had to sponge the spilled milk up from the floor, the chair, the table, and the baby. What a mess!