free rider

Definition of free ridernext
as in parasite
a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return During their fundraising campaign, the public radio station encouraged listeners not to be free riders.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for free rider
Noun
  • Also required is proof of a negative fecal test for internal parasites.
    Adam Harrington, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Miller, whose office is also working to control the flesh-eating parasite, was not part of the event.
    John C. Moritz, Austin American Statesman, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Although tempting, your beloved cat or dog doesn’t qualify as a dependent.
    Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Under the bill, able-bodied individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 without dependents must work or attend a work program, such as SNAP Employment and Training, at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits.
    Isa Almeida, Oklahoman, 14 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Start With a Clean Work Area A dirty sink and, even worse, an old, dirty sponge will only create a bacterial soup that can cling to surfaces.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Using the sponge, gently wipe or blot the entire boot with circular motions.
    Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Ben, flanked by his henchmen, was seen as formidable and dangerous.
    Thomas Morgan, The Conversation, 3 Feb. 2026
  • Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper’s Beadle Bamford, the judge’s henchman, has a malicious ebullience all his own.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Free rider.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/free%20rider. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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