Parásito (en. Parasite)

[paˈɾisito]

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
An organism that feeds on and lives at the expense of another organism, known as the host.
The intestinal worm is a parasite that affects human health.
La lombriz intestinal es un parásito que afecta a la salud del ser humano.
A person who lives at the expense of others, without working or making an effort.
He is a parasite who is always asking to borrow money.
Es un parásito que siempre está pidiendo dinero prestado.

Etymology

From the Greek 'parasitos', meaning 'eater at the side'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to be a parasite
Living at the expense of others.
ser un parásito
social parasites
People who benefit from the efforts of others.
parásitos sociales

Related Words

parasitism
Relationship between two organisms in which one benefits at the expense of the other.
parasitismo
host
An organism that is a host to a parasite.
huésped

Slang Meanings

A person who depends on others to survive.
That guy is a parasite; he only lives off what others give him.
Ese tipo es un parásito, solo vive de lo que le dan.
Someone who does not contribute but benefits from a group.
Don't invite him anymore; he's a parasite on the team.
No lo invites más, es un parásito en el equipo.