Definition

Relating to an organism that feeds on the blood of another, often in a harmful or exploitative way.

Example

The bloodsucking mosquito buzzed around the picnic, searching for a meal.

Conversation

Have you heard about that new horror movie with the bloodsucking creatures?

Yeah, I saw the trailer! It looked really creepy.

I can't stand movies with bloodsucking monsters; they always give me nightmares.

Same here! I'd rather watch a comedy any day.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bloodsucking → It is formed from "blood" (from Old English "blōd", meaning the red fluid that circulates in the bodies of humans and animals) and "sucking" (from Old English "sūcan", meaning to draw in or extract). The word "bloodsucking" describes the act of drawing blood from a host, typically associated with certain animals like vampires or leeches.

Memory Tip

Think of 'blood' as the red fluid and 'sucking' as drawing it in — that's why bloodsucking refers to drawing blood from a host.

Visually Confused Words