Synonyms of leech

leech 1 of 2

noun

ˈlēch 

as in parasite

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

whenever the gang went out for pizza, the leech in the group always had an excuse for not paying his fair share

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• supporter
• benefactor
• philanthropist

leech

2 of 2

verb

as in to sponge

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sponge
• freeload
• mooch
• exploit
• use
• beg

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun leech differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of leech are parasite, sponge, sycophant, and toady. While all these words mean "a usually obsequious flatterer or self-seeker," leech stresses persistence in clinging to or bleeding another for one's own advantage.

a leech living off his family and friends

When is parasite a more appropriate choice than leech?

The words parasite and leech are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, parasite applies to one who clings to a person of wealth, power, or influence or is useless to society.

a jet-setter with an entourage of parasites

When can sponge be used instead of leech?

The synonyms sponge and leech are sometimes interchangeable, but sponge stresses the parasitic laziness, dependence, and opportunism of the cadger.

a shiftless sponge, always looking for a handout

In what contexts can sycophant take the place of leech?

The words sycophant and leech can be used in similar contexts, but sycophant adds to this a strong suggestion of fawning, flattery, or adulation.

a powerful prince surrounded by sycophants

When could toady be used to replace leech?

In some situations, the words toady and leech are roughly equivalent. However, toady emphasizes the servility and snobbery of the self-seeker.

cultivated leaders of society and became their toady

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of leech

Noun

The Moist mode removed air effectively without letting liquid leech too far toward the chamber. —Adam Campbell-Schmitt, Bon Appétit, 27 Jan. 2025

His writing included warnings to distinguish between leeches: good (round and shiny) and bad (black or blue in color and found near fetid water). —Megan Cassidy-Welch, CNN, 24 Jan. 2025

Verb

On May 1, Judge Vince Chhabria will weigh these arguments at a hearing where Meta will get a chance to respond to the leeching claims. —Ashley Belanger, Ars Technica, 12 Mar. 2025

Located about 40 miles east of McCall at the site of decades-old mine remains that for years have leeched toxins into the Salmon River watershed, the area has previously been considered for federal superfund designation. —Ian Max Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 20 Feb. 2025