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Freeload: meaning, definitions and examples

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freeload

 

[ ˈfriːloʊd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

taking advantage

To freeload means to take advantage of someone else's generosity or resources without offering anything in return. It often implies living off someone else without contributing or reciprocating. This term is commonly used in social contexts where one person benefits at the expense of another. Freeloading is often viewed negatively, as it can create an imbalance in relationships.

Synonyms

borrower, leech, mooch, sponger.

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of freeloading off his friends.
  • Some people tend to freeload when they attend parties.
  • She hates when her brother freeloads during the holidays.

Translations

Translations of the word "freeload" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aproveitar-se

🇮🇳 फ्रीलोड

🇩🇪 schmarotzen

🇮🇩 memanfaatkan

🇺🇦 паразитувати

🇵🇱 żywić się kosztem innych

🇯🇵 タダで利用する

🇫🇷 profiter

🇪🇸 aprovecharse

🇹🇷 bedavadan yararlanmak

🇰🇷 공짜로 이용하다

🇸🇦 استغلال الآخرين

🇨🇿 parazitovat

🇸🇰 parazitovať

🇨🇳 白吃

🇸🇮 izkoriščati

🇮🇸 fá eitthvað ókeypis

🇰🇿 тегін пайдалану

🇬🇪 უფასოდ სარგებლობა

🇦🇿 pulsuz faydalanmaq

🇲🇽 aprovecharse

Etymology

The term 'freeload' emerged in the mid-20th century, combining the prefix 'free' with 'load'. The word conveys the notion of obtaining something without cost, typically implying an unfair advantage. Its usage has evolved through the decades, reflecting changing social attitudes towards generosity and entitlement. Originally, the concept of freeloading could be seen in communal living arrangements, where individuals contributed little but relied on the collective resources. As society became more individualistic, freeloading took on a more negative connotation, often associated with dependency and exploitation. Today, the term frequently appears in discussions about social behavior, especially in contexts involving friends, family, or social gatherings. Its associations with negative moral implications continue to shape its usage, as it addresses the responsibilities owed in social interactions.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,907, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.