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
• freeloader
• dependent
• sponger
• moocher
• henchman
• hanger-on
• bloodsucker
• free rider
• miser
• flunkey
• deadbeat
• satellite
• idler
• sycophant
• lackey
• toady
• flunkie
• stooge
• skinflint
• tightwad
• cheapskate
• piker
• 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

Always wear gloves before handling nests to protect yourself from any germs or parasites. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 July 2025

Introducing coral from other parts of the world can be highly dangerous to local reefs — coral from the Pacific or even the eastern Caribbean could carry parasites and diseases that Florida corals are vulnerable to. —Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 3 July 2025

Ana Gutierrez and Caleb Yum fanned out across town, took the parasite scan, collected the tote bag and came back with this report on five activations including the Lodge from Paramount+, FX's Alien experience and the Museum of the Future House. —Deborah Sengupta Stith, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

The current threat represents the parasite's northward march through Central America over two years, reaching Mexico in November 2024 and spreading to within 700 miles of the U.S. border. —Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025