Basic Details
Word: Parasite
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: An organism that lives on or in another organism (the host) and benefits by getting nutrients at the host's expense.
Synonyms: Dependent, freeloader
Antonyms: Benefactor, helper
Idioms and Phrases
- Parasite on society: Refers to someone who takes advantage of others without giving anything back. Example: "He has been a parasite on society, relying on others' hard work."
- Living off the fat of the land: Describes someone who lives comfortably at the expense of others. Example: "Instead of working for his living, he prefers to live off the fat of the land, enjoying others' success."
Usage Examples
Example 1: A tick is a common type of parasite that feeds on the blood of animals.
Example 2: Some plants, like dodder, are parasites that wrap around host plants to steal nutrients.
Example 3: The movie explored how a parasite can harm its host while trying to survive in a harsh environment.
Fun Fact
The word "parasite" comes from the Greek word "parasitos," which means "one who eats at the table of another." This reflects how parasites depend on their hosts for sustenance.
Famous Quote
"Necessity is the mother of invention, but laziness is a parasite that eats up creativity." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "parasite" mean?
a) An independent organism
b) A harmful insect
c) An organism that lives off another
d) A type of plant
Answer: c) An organism that lives off another
2. Which of these is a synonym of "parasite"?
a) Benefactor
b) Dependent
c) Helper
d) Provider
Answer: b) Dependent
3. What is an antonym of "parasite"?
a) Freeloader
b) Helper
c) Pet
d) Pest
Answer: b) Helper
4. Which sentence uses "parasite" correctly?
a) The parasite danced at the party.
b) The parasite depends on its host for food.
c) The parasite flew in the sky.
d) The parasite built a house.
Answer: b) The parasite depends on its host for food.
5. Which idiom refers to someone who takes advantage of others?
a) Living off the fat of the land
b) Cold as ice
c) Cutting corners
d) Jumping on the bandwagon
Answer: a) Living off the fat of the land
