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What is another word for Leech? – 153 Leech Synonyms

    Need another word for Leech? Use these synonyms of Leech from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    parasite sponger freeloader moocher scavenger bloodsucker tick flea louse worm insect pest nuisance plague blight scourge vampire extortionist exploiter profiteer manipulator user abuser cadger beggar panhandler sponge leecher drain parasite tapeworm fluke trematode flatworm platyhelminth wormlike insectoid arthropod invertebrate creature organism animal beast brute monster fiend demon devil

    Meaning of Leech

    A leech is primarily a type of worm that feeds on the blood of other animals, or a person who takes advantage of others for personal gain.

    Definitions

    • A segmented worm that has a sucker at each end and feeds on the blood of other animals.
    • A person who habitually relies on or exploits others for personal gain, especially in a way that is considered dishonest or immoral.
    • A device for removing fluid from a wound or abscess, typically consisting of a small cup with a vacuum pump.

    Etymology of Leech

    The word "leech" originates from Old English "lēce", which referred to a physician or a healer, as well as the worm itself.
    The term "leech" for the worm is thought to have been derived from the Old English word "lēcan", meaning "to heal", due to the historical use of leeches in medical practices, such as bloodletting.
    Over time, the term "leech" took on a broader meaning to include any person who preys on others, especially in a way that is considered exploitative or dishonest.

    Example Uses

    • The doctor applied a leech to the patient's wound to remove excess blood.
    • He's a bit of a leech, always asking his friends for money.
    • The company has been accused of being a leech on the economy, taking advantage of tax loopholes and exploiting its workers.

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    donor benefactor philanthropist altruist helper assistant supporter contributor giver provider supplier beneficent generous charitable kind selfless altruistic humanitarian aid assistance support help relief succor refuge haven sanctuary shelter

    Related Nouns

    worm parasite insect animal creature organism beast monster fiend demon devil vampire bloodsucker tick flea louse pest nuisance plague blight scourge exploiter profiteer manipulator user abuser cadger beggar panhandler sponge leecher

    Related Verbs

    suck feed drain exploit manipulate use abuse cadge beg panhandle sponge leech bleed suckle nurse prey plunder pillage ravage despoil fleece swindle cheat defraud

    Related Adjectives

    parasitic exploitative manipulative abusive predatory bloodthirsty voracious rapacious insatiable greedy selfish dishonest immoral unethical unscrupulous ruthless merciless cruel brutal fiendish demonic devilish