feed off
The phrase "feed off" can be used both literally and figuratively, highlighting a relationship where nourishment or benefit is derived from an external source.
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Definition
B2Biology
(literal)To obtain nourishment or food from a specific source.
Example
- Cows feed off grass in the pasture.
- The caterpillar feeds off the leaves of the plant.
B2General
(figurative, idiomatic)To gain strength, energy, or advantage from a particular situation or environment.
Example
- He tends to feed off the energy of the crowd during his performances.
- Negative emotions often feed off stress and anxiety.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "feed off":
live offprey onfeed intomooch offbite offoff one's feedeat upnosh offfeeding frenzychew offmake a meal ofhive offfight offbottom feeding