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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

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

These conditions can facilitate the spread of viruses, bacteria and parasites.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

We spent nineteen days in the infirmary, swallowing a variety of specialized poisons, since we had intestinal parasites, fungus growing on our feet and forearms, and more than the usual degree of malaria.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver