parasite
PAIR-uh-syte
/ˈpær.ə.saɪt/
An organism that lives in or on an animal host and feeds off it, causing potential harm or discomfort.
Refers biologically to organisms like fleas, ticks, mites, or worms that harm the host for survival.
The story behind the word. Ancient Greek 'parasitos' literally translated to 'eating beside someone else at their table'. Originally designating officials who dined at public expense, the term shifted in biological Latin to organisms that feed off a living host's body.
Word relationships
- pest: Pest is a general term for troublesome animals or insects, whereas parasite strictly feeds on a host.
- leech: Leech refers to a specific bloodsucking worm or metaphorically to a dependent person.
- host: The host is the organism providing nourishment to the parasite.
Commonly confused with
- symbiont: A symbiont lives in a mutually beneficial relationship, whereas a parasite harms its host.
Word family
- parasitic (adjective): Living as a parasite on another organism.
- parasitism (noun): The state or relationship of being a parasite.
Collocations
- external parasite
- parasite infection
- parasite control
- internal parasite
Example sentences
- "Monthly topical treatments protect pets from harmful external parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites." Veterinary preventative care
Memory hook
A PARASITE sits PAIRed with a host to SIGHT its next meal. Unwanted table guest feeding on host.
When not to use
Do not confuse with symbiotic organisms that benefit or do no harm to their host animal.
Fun facts
- Fleas, a common pet parasite, can jump over 50 times their body length to land on a furry host!
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