1. the practice of using leeches for medical treatment
Usage: medical
2. the act of taking advantage of others without giving anything in return
Usage: informal

1. present participle of leech: attaching like a leech to drain or exploit

Examples

• The ancient practice of leeching was once common in European medicine.
• Modern leeching is still used in some surgical procedures to improve blood flow.
• His constant leeching off his friends made him unpopular.
• She accused him of leeching resources from the company without contributing.
• The parasitic plant was leeching nutrients from the host tree.
• Stop leeching off your parents and get a job.
• Medical leeching requires specially bred, sterile leeches.