parasites

plural of parasite
as in leeches
a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return a parasite who lived in the family's basement and refused to get a job or pay rent

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of parasites May Protect Against Disease Annatto is rich in several key antimicrobial compounds, which can limit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 21 Dec. 2024 Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted to humans via infected mosquitos. Dave Wessner, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024 Often, these duplications are referred to as genetic parasites due to their potential harmful effects, including genetic diseases such as cancer. Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024 Both species can carry parasites that pose a risk to humans. Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 11 Dec. 2024 Advertisement Recalls happen when food is found to be contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites, due to the presence of foreign objects such as glass or metal, or if packaging fails to note a major allergen. Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024 This reusable steel filter straw removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics from water. Joni Sweet, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024 Outdoors, pests are kept in check by natural parasites and predators. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2024 Stops the multiplication of parasites in the body These parasites sneak into the liver and then invade red blood cells, causing havoc in the human body. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 22 Nov. 2024

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“Parasites.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/parasites. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

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