Parasite: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.