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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.

“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

There are hunters and prey, parasites and hosts, swimmers and sitters, and there are those with varied diets while others photosynthesize.

From Science Daily • May 7, 2026

According to the WHO, there have been reports this year of some 111,500 cases of disease or infestation due to external parasites.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

While they already groom each other to remove debris, spores, and parasites, the smaller cone ants might be able to reach areas that are otherwise difficult to clean.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Viroids can be so small and still thrive because they are thoroughgoing, unremitting parasites.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan