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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.

parasitical

/ˌpærəˈsɪtɪkəl/ /ˌpærəˈsɪtɪkəl/

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.

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