b. transf. to feed on (a person): to live at his expense.
ΘΚΠ
the mind > attention and judgement > esteem > approval or sanction > commendation or praise > flattery or flattering > servile flattery or currying favour > flatter servilely or curry favour with [verb (transitive)] > sponge on
live1583
sponge1677
to feed on1733
1733 A. PopeEss. Maniii. 65 All feed on one vain Patron.