Definition

Relating to or resembling a living thing that lives on or in another organism and gets its food from it.

Example

The parasitical plant took nutrients from the tree it was growing on.

Conversation

Did you read that article about parasitical plants?

Yeah, it was fascinating how they survive off other plants.

I didn’t realize how many types there are that can be so parasitical.

Right? It makes you think about the balance in nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Parasitical → It is formed from "parasitus" (from Latin, meaning one who eats at another's table) and the suffix "-ical" (meaning pertaining to). The word "parasitical" refers to something that pertains to or resembles a parasite, which lives off another organism.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'parasite' that 'eats at another's table' — that's why 'parasitical' describes something that relates to living off others.

Visually Confused Words