Exploitative

/ɪkˈsplɔɪtətɪv/ adjective

Definition

Characterized by taking unfair advantage of others; using people or resources in a way that benefits one person while harming another.

Etymology

From 'exploit' + '-ative' (having the quality/tendency of). The suffix creates an adjective describing something having the nature of exploitation.

Kelly Says

When psychologists study 'exploitative relationships,' they've found that the power imbalance—one person's ability to threaten leaving or removing resources—is the key feature separating it from merely unfair arrangements.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.