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(biology) a small organism that lives on or inside another organism, called a host, and is dependent on it for nutrition and growth
a person who lives off or exploits others, gaining advantage without offering anything in return
What is the origin of the term "parasite" and how is it used?
"Parasite" is a slang insult that has been used in English since the 16th–17th century, borrowed from the biological term for an organism that lives off another. Applied to people, it describes someone who exploits others, gaining advantage or support without contributing anything in return. The metaphor directly links human behavior to a harmful or dependent organism. It is used in informal, formal, or rhetorical contexts, including conversation, media, and political commentary, to express strong disapproval. The term is clearly derogatory and intended to criticize; it is never neutral.
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