Parasitical - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Parasitical describes something that lives off or depends on another organism, often harming it, like a parasite. It can also refer to people who exploit others without giving anything in return.
Definition:
Relating to or characteristic of a parasite; exploiting others without giving anything in return.
Synonyms:
leechlike, dependent, exploitative, sponging
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
independent, self-sufficient
Common Collocations:
parasitical relationship, parasitical behavior, parasitical organism
Derivatives:
parasitically, parasitism
Usage Tips:
Use "parasitical" to describe organisms or people that depend on others harmfully without reciprocation.
Common Phrases:
live like a parasite, feed off others, sponge off someone
Etymology:
Derived from Greek "parasitos" (one who eats at another's table) via Latin "parasiticus."
Examples:
- 1. The plant had a parasitical relationship with the host tree.
- 2. His parasitical behavior drained his friends' resources over time.
- 3. Some fungi are known for their parasitical nature in forests.
- 4. She avoided people with a parasitical attitude toward relationships.