Synonyms of hanger-on

hanger-on

noun

ˈhaŋ-ər-ˌȯn 

as in parasite

a person who is supported by or seeks support from another without making an adequate return

almost overnight, the singer was a star, and almost overnight, he was surrounded by hangers-on who wanted something

Synonyms & Similar Words

• parasite
• henchman
• sponge
• freeloader
• sponger
• leech
• dependent
• moocher
• free rider
• bloodsucker
• flunkey
• sycophant
• lackey
• miser
• deadbeat
• idler
• flunkie
• toady
• satellite
• flunky
• stooge
• cheapskate
• yes-man
• skinflint
• piker
• tightwad
• niggard
• scrooge

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• supporter
• benefactor
• philanthropist

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of hanger-on

Their wealth involves a whole galaxy of servants and hangers-on who might feel threatened by a big change in their patron’s status quo. —Christian Holub, EW.com, 20 Sep. 2024

Despite the revelation of the real Black Mesa corporation, some hangers-on haven't quite given up hope that this is all still just an extremely subtle bit of stealth marketing. —Kyle Orland, Ars Technica, 15 Aug. 2024

Colin and Woody walk and talk and start to work things out, aided by a model-gorgeous hanger-on named Aphrodite (María Gabriela de Faría). —Peter Debruge, Variety, 31 July 2024

The entire sports industrial complex had descended on the city — executives, athletes, agencies, every form of hanger-on. —Ben Strauss, Washington Post, 25 July 2024