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leech

noun

Synonyms and Antonyms of leech

a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return
  • Whenever we go out for pizza, that leech always has an excuse for not paying his fair share.
Synonyms of leech

bloodsucker, freeloader, free rider, hanger-on, moocher, parasite, sponge, sponger
Words Related to leech

dependent

deadbeat, idler

flunky (also flunkey), henchman, lackey

cheapskate, miser, niggard, piker, scrooge, skinflint, tightwad
Near Antonyms of leech

benefactor, philanthropist, supporter

Synonym Discussion of leech

parasite, sycophant, toady, leech, sponge mean a usually obsequious flatterer or self-seeker. parasite applies to one who clings to a person of wealth, power, or influence or is useless to society.
    • a jet-setter with an entourage of parasites
sycophant adds to this a strong suggestion of fawning, flattery, or adulation.
    • a powerful prince surrounded by sycophants
toady emphasizes the servility and snobbery of the self-seeker.
    • cultivated leaders of society and became their toady
leech stresses persistence in clinging to or bleeding another for one's own advantage.
    • a leech living off his family and friends
sponge stresses the parasitic laziness, dependence, and opportunism of the cadger.
    • a shiftless sponge, always looking for a handout

Learn More about leech

  1. See words that rhyme with leech Dictionary: Definition of leech Medical Dictionary: Definition of leech Spanish Central: Translation of leech Nglish: Translation of leech for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about leech

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