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leech |
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leechAny of a group of annelid worms. Leeches live in fresh water, and in tropical countries infest damp forests. As bloodsucking animals they are injurious to people and animals, to whom they attach themselves by means of a strong mouth adapted to sucking. (Class Hirudinea.) Formerly, the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis) was used extensively for ‘bleeding’ for a variety of ills. It is still cultivated as the source of the anticoagulant hirudin. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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| As medical knowledge advanced, the practice of leeching died out. Santa is regularly criticized for leeching Christmas of spirituality. In addition, critics are concerned that relying on the aquifers is risky because pumping could spread pollution state officials believe is leeching into the groundwater from a defunct munitions factory. |
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leeching
