vampire
Pluralvampires
Pluralvampires
- 1In stories, a dead person who still walks and feeds on the blood or life of the living.
The vampire in the movie only came out at night.
My little brother dressed up as a vampire for Halloween.
Similarnosferatu
Note
- 2A person who takes too much of your time, energy, or money.
My old roommate was a real vampire who never paid for anything.
Some friends are vampires who only call when they need help.
UsageOften an emotional vampire: someone who tires you out.
Similarleech, parasite, bloodsucker
- 3A person who stays up all night, hides from the sun, or has very pale skin.
My brother is a total vampire who sleeps all day and plays games all night.
You're such a vampire, sitting inside with the curtains closed on a sunny day!
Less common meanings
- 4A bat that drinks the blood of other animals.
The common vampire is a small bat that drinks blood.
Among bats, only the vampires feed on blood.
UsageUsually called a vampire bat.
- 5A hospital worker who takes blood from patients.
The vampires came by at five in the morning to take more blood.
I hate needles, so I always groan when the vampire walks in.
Note
- 6A woman who uses her beauty and charm to take advantage of men.
In the old silent film, she played a vampire who stole men's money.
The rich old man married a young vampire who spent all his money.
UsageThe short form vamp is more common for this kind of character in old movies and stories.
Similarvamp, temptress, seductress, siren
Note
- 7To take away the energy or money of a person or thing.
- 8In the US Navy, a word for an enemy missile flying toward a ship.
Showing meanings only.
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Origin
It came into English through French and German from a Slavic word.
Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 1 fact
- English borrowed vampire through French and German from a Slavic word. en.wiktionary.org