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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 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

Published in the Journal of Experimental Biology, the study provides fresh insight into how parasites adjust their sensory systems when their lifestyles change dramatically.

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 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

When I’m nervous or sad I also fall prey to the awful itch from filaires, tiny parasites that crawl into your pores and cause a flare-up every so often.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver