parasitic

[ par-uh-sit-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of parasites.
2. (of diseases) due to parasites.
3. Phonetics. excrescent ( def 2 ).

Other Words From

• para·siti·cal·ly adverb
• para·siti·cal·ness noun
• anti·para·sitic noun adjective
• anti·para·siti·cal adjective
• anti·para·siti·cal·ly adverb
• nonpar·a·sitic adjective
• nonpar·a·siti·cal adjective
• nonpar·a·siti·cal·ly adverb
• pseudo·para·sitic adjective
• unpar·a·sitic adjective
• unpar·a·siti·cal adjective
• unpar·a·siti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of parasitic¹

1620–30; < Latin parasīticus < Greek parasītikós. See parasite, -ic

Example Sentences

The almost parasitic quickness with which the spooky seasonal chain moves in on vacant storefronts has become a meme.

From Slate

They found that the residents were exposed to five other pesticides including 1,3-dichloropropene, also known as 1,3-D, a pesticide used to eradicate parasitic worms that has been banned in more than 20 countries, and penthiopyrad, a fungicide used to prevent mold and mildew that has not yet been studied for its effect on mammals, so the human impact is unknown.

From Los Angeles Times

There are also long-standing concerns around parasitic sea lice and the use of chemical treatments in open waters.

From BBC

Two people in Los Angeles County are sick with a rare parasitic infection known as “raccoon roundworm,” according to officials.

From Los Angeles Times

But Theroux, while not a stranger to comedic acting, blindsides us as Lydia's parasitic boyfriend.

From Salon