plural parasites
1
: an animal or plant that lives in or on another animal or plant and gets food or protection from it
Many diseases are caused by parasites.
2
disapproving
: a person or thing that takes something from someone or something else and does not do anything to earn it or deserve it
She's a parasite who only stays with him for the money.
These new companies are parasites feeding off the success of those who spent the last decade establishing the industry.
Cite this Entry
“Parasite.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/parasite. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.
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