parasites

NOUN

something that exists by taking from or depending on another

Synonyms

STRONG

barnacle bloodsucker bootlicker deadbeat dependent flunky freeloader groupie hanger-on idler leech scrounger sponge stooge sucker sycophant taker

Antonyms

WEAK

blessing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cleaner fish remove parasites from larger reef fish and receive a meal in return.

From Science Daily • Jun. 20, 2026

The injectable drug can be used along with a one-dose topical spray that kills the parasites at a cost of about 30 cents per animal, he said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Left untreated, the infestation can be deadly, and the parasites can quickly spread.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

“The Spartans might be . . . viewed as parasites, feeding off the forced labor of their helots,” he opines.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

In all, about 100 species of imported predators and parasites have become established.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson