Synonyms of parasite

parasite

noun

ˈper-ə-ˌsīt 

as in leech

a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return

a parasite who lived in the family's basement and refused to get a job or pay rent

Synonyms & Similar Words

• leech
• sponge
• dependent
• freeloader
• sponger
• henchman
• bloodsucker
• free rider
• moocher
• hanger-on
• miser
• satellite
• deadbeat
• idler
• sycophant
• lackey
• toady
• stooge
• skinflint
• tightwad
• piker
• cheapskate
• flunky
• yes-man
• scrooge

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• supporter
• benefactor
• philanthropist

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun parasite differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of parasite are leech, sponge, sycophant, and toady. While all these words 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

When is it sensible to use leech instead of parasite?

While the synonyms leech and parasite are close in meaning, leech stresses persistence in clinging to or bleeding another for one's own advantage.

a leech living off his family and friends

When is sponge a more appropriate choice than parasite?

The synonyms sponge and parasite are sometimes interchangeable, but sponge stresses the parasitic laziness, dependence, and opportunism of the cadger.

a shiftless sponge, always looking for a handout

When would sycophant be a good substitute for parasite?

The words sycophant and parasite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sycophant adds to this a strong suggestion of fawning, flattery, or adulation.

a powerful prince surrounded by sycophants

In what contexts can toady take the place of parasite?

The meanings of toady and parasite largely overlap; however, toady emphasizes the servility and snobbery of the self-seeker.

cultivated leaders of society and became their toady

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of parasite

Efforts to control sea lamprey, a lethal parasite of many fish species, have successfully suppressed populations by 90% compared with before these efforts began. —Caitlin Looby, jsonline.com, 23 Jan. 2026

In the 13th century, German Dominican friar and scientist Albertus Magnus, was among the first to formally recognize and document European leafy mistletoe (Viscum album) as a plant parasite. —Matt Kasson, Popular Science, 17 Dec. 2025

Since the summer, ranchers have been struggling with a flesh-eating parasite that has been infecting livestock. —Steve Kopack, NBC news, 11 Dec. 2025

Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images U.S. cattle ranchers will soon have a new way to protect their dwindling herds from the threat of the parasite screwworm, which is decimating cattle in Mexico. —Lori Ann Larocco, CNBC, 9 Dec. 2025