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Definition of parasitically

parasitically

/ˌpær.əˈsɪt.ɪ.kli/
par · a · sit · i · cal · ly
Adjective:parasitic
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parasitically Lexical Profile

parasitically Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a biological manner that involves living in or on a host organism and deriving nutrients at the host's expense.

Example

"Certain species of mistletoe grow parasitically on the branches of hardwood trees, drawing water and minerals directly from their hosts."

2

In a way that habitually exploits the hospitality, wealth, or labor of others without making any useful return.

Example

"He lived parasitically off his wealthy relatives for years before finally seeking steady employment."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for parasitically

• Nearby Words

parasite
parasitic
parasitical
parasitically
parasol
paratha
paratransit

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'parasitic' and the adverbial suffix '-ally', ultimately tracing back to the Ancient Greek 'parasitos' ('one who eats at another's table'), from 'para-' ('beside') and 'sitos' ('grain' or 'food').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Parasitically. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/parasitically
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