parasitism
/ˈpæɹəs(a)ɪˌtɪzm̩/ · par·a·si·tism
noun
- A relationship between two organisms in which one (the parasite) derives benefit at the expense of the other (the host). The tapeworm’s parasitism harms the host by absorbing nutrients that the host needs.
- A figurative relationship in which a person or group exploits another for personal gain, causing harm or loss to the latter. Critics accused the politician of parasitism, pointing out how he profited from public funds while neglecting his constituents.
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Did you know? The word ‘parasitism’ was popularized in the 19th century by biologists studying marine life, but it quickly entered social criticism, where Marxist writers used it to describe capitalist exploitation.
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