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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.

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

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

As commercial hives across the United States struggle to survive attacks from deadly parasites, a distinct hybrid bee found in this region is showing a surprising ability to endure.

From Science Daily • Apr. 20, 2026

Africa has parasites so particular and diverse as to occupy every niche of the body: intestines small and large, the skin, the bladder, the male and female reproductive tracts, interstitial fluids, even the cornea.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver