leeching
|leech/ing|
B2
/liːtʃɪŋ/
(leech)
exploitation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'leech' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'lǣce', where it meant 'physician' or 'healer'.
Historical Evolution
'lǣce' transformed into the Middle English word 'leche', and eventually became the modern English word 'leech'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'physician', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'bloodsucking worm' and metaphorically 'exploiter'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
the act of using or exploiting someone or something for personal gain, often without giving anything in return.
He was leeching off his friends for money.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
present participle form of 'leech'.
The plant is leeching nutrients from the soil.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42