freeloader
Freeloader (noun) means a person who takes advantage of others' generosity without contributing or paying their fair share. Example: “His roommates got tired of him being a freeloader who never paid his share of the bills.”
How to use freeloader
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who benefits from others without giving anything back.
Informal and mildly disapproving.
Word forms
freeloaders plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His roommates got tired of him being a _____ who never paid his share of the bills.
Etymology
From "free" plus "load," with the agent suffix -er, originating in 1930s American slang.
Rhymes for freeloader
See all rhymes for freeloader →Frequently asked questions
What does “freeloader” mean?
The word “freeloader” means a person who takes advantage of others' generosity without contributing or paying their fair share. In plain terms, someone who benefits from others without giving anything back.
How do you pronounce “freeloader”?
“Freeloader” is pronounced FREE-loh-duh (/ˈfɹiloʊdɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “freeloader” in a sentence?
Here is “freeloader” used in a sentence: “His roommates got tired of him being a freeloader who never paid his share of the bills.”
What part of speech is “freeloader”?
“Freeloader” is a noun.
Where does the word “freeloader” come from?
The word “freeloader” dates back to around 1930. From "free" plus "load," with the agent suffix -er, originating in 1930s American slang.