Freeloaded: meaning, definitions and examples

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freeloaded

 

[ ˈfriːloʊd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

receiving benefits

To freeload means to obtain a benefit such as food, lodging, or other resources without paying for them or contributing in return. This term often carries a negative connotation, implying that someone is taking advantage of others' generosity or resources without offering anything in exchange.

Synonyms

leech, moocher, sponger

Examples of usage

  • He always freeloads off his friends during vacations.
  • She doesn't like freeloaders who never pay their share.
  • They were accused of freeloading on the charity's donations.

Translations

Translations of the word "freeloaded" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gratuito

🇮🇳 बिना किसी शुल्क के प्राप्त

🇩🇪 kostenlos

🇮🇩 gratis

🇺🇦 безкоштовний

🇵🇱 darmowy

🇯🇵 無料

🇫🇷 gratuit

🇪🇸 gratuito

🇹🇷 ücretsiz

🇰🇷 무료

🇸🇦 مجاني

🇨🇿 zdarma

🇸🇰 zadarmo

🇨🇳 免费

🇸🇮 brezplačno

🇮🇸 ókeypis

🇰🇿 тегін

🇬🇪 უფასო

🇦🇿 pulsuz

🇲🇽 gratis

Etymology

The term 'freeload' originates from the combination of 'free' and 'load', with 'load' referring to a burden or the act of carrying something. The use of the word began to surface in the mid-20th century, particularly in contexts involving social behaviors where individuals benefit from the resources or hospitality of others without reciprocating or contributing. The term reflects societal attitudes towards fairness and reciprocity in social exchanges. Over time, 'freeloading' has come to be associated with negative characteristics, often describing individuals who exploit generosity or who refuse to contribute to communal resources. The term has also influenced related concepts in discussions about social responsibility and the ethics of sharing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,623, 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.