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Plural
parasites
1
(biology) a small organism that lives on or inside another organism, called a host, and is dependent on it for nutrition and growth
- The mosquito is a well-known parasite that feeds on the blood of its host, often transmitting diseases in the process.
- Tapeworms are parasites that can inhabit the intestines of animals, absorbing nutrients from their hosts.
- Malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.
- Scientists are studying the life cycle of the parasite to develop better treatments and preventative measures for the diseases it causes.
- The relationship between the host and the parasite is often detrimental to the host, as the parasite exploits its resources for survival and reproduction.
Antonyms:
2
a person who lives off or exploits others, gaining advantage without offering anything in return
- He called his lazy roommate a parasite.
- The hangers-on at the royal court were seen as parasites.
- The politician's entourage was full of social parasites.
- Parasites in the business world feed on others' hard work.
- He refused to support a woman he saw as a parasite on his success.