parasite meaning and definition

PARASITE noun

Definition of parasite (noun)

1. an animal or plant that lives in or on a host (another animal or plant); it obtains nourishment from the host without benefiting or killing the host
   • antonym: host
2. a follower who hangs around a host (without benefit to the host) in hope of gain or advantage
   • synonyms: leech, sponge, sponger