freeload

American  

[free-lohd, -lohd] / ˈfriˈloʊd, -ˌloʊd /

verb (used without object)

Informal.

1. to take advantage of others for free food, entertainment, etc.

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verb (used with object)

1. to get by freeloading.

   He freeloaded several meals a week.

freeload British  

/ ˈfriːˌləʊd /

verb

1. slang (intr) to act as a freeloader; sponge

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Other Word Forms

• freeloader noun

Etymology

Origin of freeload

1950–55, back formation from freeloader ( free + load + -er ¹ )

Example Sentences

When Meredith returns home from work, she isn’t too pleased that Shahid is allowing Nami to freeload, but she consents for one night only.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 5, 2023

Tinted in golden light, the bald eagle looked regal and proud, even if he was just going to freeload in a farmer’s field.

From Washington Post • Jan. 16, 2020

Those who are forced to leave their home countries don’t do so because they want to freeload.

From New York Times • Aug. 17, 2019

One, called the Prisoner's Dilemma, puts its participants in a scenario where cooperation is best for both parties but they still may be motivated to freeload.

From Scientific American • Apr. 11, 2012

He found himself breathing heavily, despite the freeload conditions.

From Tight Squeeze by Ing, Dean Charles