Parasite

/ˈpærəˌsaɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits at the host's expense.

The tick is a common parasite that feeds on the blood of mammals.

A person who exploits others, especially by living off their resources.

He was considered a parasite by his family for never contributing to household expenses.

A plant or animal that lives on or in another organism.

Mistletoe is a flowering plant that acts as a parasite on trees.

From the Greek 'parasitos' meaning 'one who eats alongside' or 'one who eats at another's table'.

social parasite

A person who benefits from others’ efforts without contributing themselves.

economic parasite

A term referring to entities that exploit resources without giving back in a sustainable way.

host

An organism that harbors a parasite.

symbiosis

A close biological interaction between two different organisms.

A person who takes advantage of others' kindness.

Don't be such a parasite; get a job and contribute!

Someone who lives off someone else's success.

He's just a parasite, living in his brother's shadow.