What does LEECH mean?

Parts of Speech: noun, verb

Definitions:

• A leech is a type of worm that attaches itself to the skin of animals or humans and feeds on their blood. (noun)
• To leech means to drain or extract a substance, especially money or resources, from someone or something. (verb)

Pronunciations:

• US: /liːtʃ/
• UK: /liːtʃ/

Origin and Usage:

• The word leech comes from the Old English word lǣce, which means "physician". The use of leeches in medicine has been documented since ancient times, and they were commonly used in bloodletting and other medical procedures until the 19th century. The verb leech, meaning to extract or drain, has been in use since the late 16th century.

Synonyms: bloodsucker, parasite, sycophant, freeloader, moocher

Related Words: blood, drain, money, nurse, snake

Example Sentences:

• After swimming in the lake, she discovered a leech attached to her leg.
• The company was accused of leeching resources from the local community.