leech
1leech
noun \ˈlēch\Definition of LEECH
2
[from its former use by physicians for bleeding patients] : any of numerous carnivorous or bloodsucking usually freshwater annelid worms (class Hirudinea) that have typically a flattened lanceolate segmented body with a sucker at each end
3
: a hanger-on who seeks advantage or gain
— leech·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
Origin of LEECH
Middle English leche, from Old English lǣce; akin to Old High German lāhhi physician
First Known Use: before 12th century
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Previous Word in the Dictionary: lee–bow
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Previous Word in the Dictionary: lee–bow
All Words Near: leech
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