Parasites Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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parasites
[ˈpærəˌsaɪts ]
Definition
biological organisms
Parasites are organisms that live on or in a host organism and benefit at the host's expense. They can cause diseases and malnutrition in their hosts. Some common types of parasites include protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites.
Synonyms
bystander, dependant, freeloader, leech.
Examples of usage
- The doctor diagnosed the patient with a parasitic infection.
- Many animals have evolved to cope with the presence of parasites.
- Parasites can have significant impacts on agricultural productivity.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Parasites can be classified into different types, including ectoparasites (like fleas) that live outside their host and endoparasites (like tapeworms) that live inside.
- Some parasites have complex life cycles, requiring different hosts at various stages of development.
Impact on Hosts
- Many parasites can cause diseases in their hosts, leading to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health problems.
- In some ecosystems, parasitic relationships play essential roles in regulating host populations and promoting biodiversity.
Cultural References
- Parasites often symbolize exploitation in literature and film, reflecting societal themes where one party benefits at another's expense.
- The movie 'Parasite', which won multiple Academy Awards, cleverly uses these themes to explore class divisions and social inequality.
Medical Science
- Some parasites have been harnessed in medical science for therapies, like using certain parasites to treat autoimmune diseases by modulating the immune system.
- Research into parasitic diseases continues, seeking cures for ailments like malaria and schistosomiasis, which affect millions globally.
Origin of 'parasites'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'parasite' comes from the Greek word 'parasitos', meaning 'one who eats at another's table'.
- Historically, it referred to those who depended on others for food or resources, and then evolved to describe organisms.
The word 'parasite' originates from the Greek word 'parasitos', which means 'one who eats at the table of another'. This term was derived from 'para-' meaning 'beside' and 'sitos' meaning 'food'. The usage of the term evolved over centuries to refer to organisms that live on or within a host, extracting nutrients and energy without giving anything in return. Initially used in a broader context to describe someone who takes advantage of others' hospitality, the term narrowed to its modern biological context in the 19th century, reflecting increasing scientific interest in the relationships between species. Through advances in biology and medicine, the understanding of parasites and their effects on health, ecology, and economy has expanded significantly, leading to more focused research and efforts for treatment and prevention.