Different understandings and interpretations of the connotation of the sponge city in the academic and engineering fields have brought about obstacles and arguments to the sponge city construction. Based on long-term research and practice in the field of the sponge city construction, the origin of the concept and recent development history of the sponge city are described. The connotation and significance of the sponge city are analyzed from different perspectives. Furthermore, the possible directions of future development of the sponge city are discussed. This study would be conducive to the understanding of the sponge city theories and construction methods, and the promotion of the development of sponge cities in China.