parasite

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal

n. a person who takes money, food, or help from others but never does anything to help in return.

n. a person who habitually relies on or exploits others and gives nothing in return. Often used as a derogatory social or political label.

“He hasn't had a job in years and just lives like a parasite off his parents.”

“The editorial attacked the corrupt officials, describing them as parasites who drained the country's resources while the public suffered.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Aviation Technical

n. a smaller plane that is carried and launched by a much larger aircraft.

n. a component of a composite aircraft that is carried aloft and air-launched by a larger carrier aircraft or mother ship.

“The experimental rocket was launched as a parasite from the wing of a heavy bomber.”

“Engineers evaluated the aerodynamic interference between the mother ship and the parasite aircraft during the high-altitude release sequence.”