Parasite: meaning, definitions and examples

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parasite

[ˈpær.ə.saɪt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

an organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the other's expense

A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the other's expense. Parasites can be found in various forms, from microscopic bacteria to larger animals like ticks and fleas. They have developed various strategies to adapt to their host and ensure their survival.

Synonyms

bloodsucker, freeloader, leech, sponger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parasite	This term is often used in a scientific context to describe an organism that lives off another organism. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person who takes advantage of others. The flea is a classic example of a parasite. He was considered a social parasite, always depending on others.
leech	While also used in a biological context like 'parasite,' it can refer to a person who hangs onto others and drains them, often emotionally or financially. It has a negative connotation. He was like a leech, never giving but always taking. They're emotional leeches, always looking for pity.
sponger	This term is similar to 'freeloader' and is often used in informal contexts to describe someone who lives off others without contributing. He's been a sponger all his life, never holding a job. Everyone knew he was a sponger, always borrowing money.
freeloader	This term is informal and is commonly used to describe someone who takes advantage of others' generosity without giving anything in return. She's a total freeloader, always expecting others to pay for her. I can't stand freeloaders who never contribute to the group.
bloodsucker	This word carries a negative connotation and is typically used to describe someone who exploits others for their own gain, often in a financial sense. The loan shark was a bloodsucker, charging exorbitant interest rates. People avoided him because they thought he was a bloodsucker, always asking for money.

Examples of usage

The tick is a common parasite that feeds on the blood of its host.
Some parasites can cause serious diseases in their hosts, such as malaria.
Parasites often have complex life cycles involving multiple hosts.
An example of a parasitic relationship is the tapeworm living in the intestines of its host.
Parasites can be harmful to their hosts, affecting their health and well-being.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'parasite' comes from the Greek 'parasitos', meaning 'one who eats at the table of another'.
In ancient Greece, it referred to the guests who would dine with host families, often becoming an unwanted burden.
The term evolved to describe organisms that depend entirely on other living beings for survival.

Biology

Parasites can be found in all kingdoms of life, including animals, plants, fungi, and even bacteria.
They range from microscopic organisms like protozoa to larger ones like tapeworms, showing immense diversity.
Many parasites have complex life cycles, often involving multiple hosts to complete their reproduction.

Impact on Hosts

Infestations can weaken hosts, causing diseases that can change the behavior or physiology of the host.
In some cases, host organisms develop defenses, such as immune responses, to combat infestations.
Parasites can affect ecosystems; they play a significant role in population control and species interactions.

Cultural Representations

Parasites are often used as metaphors in literature and film, symbolizing exploitation and social issues.
In the movie 'Parasite', the term highlights class struggle, making audiences reflect on societal inequalities.
The concept of parasites has been discussed in philosophy, especially in the context of ethical exploitation.

Medical Importance

Parasites can be responsible for serious health issues in humans, including diseases like malaria and giardiasis.
Treatments often involve antiparasitic medications, which target specific life stages of these organisms.
Public health initiatives focus on prevention and education to reduce the impact of parasitic infections globally.

Translations

Translations of the word "parasite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 parasita

🇮🇳 परजीवी

🇩🇪 Parasit

🇮🇩 parasit

🇺🇦 паразит

🇵🇱 pasożyt

🇯🇵 寄生虫 (きせいちゅう)

🇫🇷 parasite

🇪🇸 parásito

🇹🇷 parazit

🇰🇷 기생충 (gisaengchung)

🇸🇦 طفيلي

🇨🇿 parazit

🇸🇰 parazit

🇨🇳 寄生虫 (jìshēngchóng)

🇸🇮 parazit

🇮🇸 sníkjudýr

🇰🇿 паразит

🇬🇪 პარაზიტი

🇦🇿 parazit

🇲🇽 parásito

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,352 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9349 antique
9350 compliment
9351 unnatural
9352 parasite
9353 disadvantaged
9354 concise
9355 lordship
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