The crossword answer to “parasites target” (or “parasite’s target”) is HOST.

Quick Scoop: Core Answer

  • In recent New York Times crossword usage (January 1, 2026), the clue “Parasite’s target” is clued with the 4‑letter answer HOST.
  • This fits both biology and wordplay: a parasite lives on or in a host , taking resources at the host’s expense.

Why “HOST” Works

  • In biology, a parasite is defined as an organism that lives in or on another organism, called the host , and derives nutrients from it without providing benefit.
  • The clue “target” points to what the parasite needs to attach to or exploit, which is exactly the host organism.

Extra Crossword Context

  • Multiple crossword helper sites list HOST as the current standard 4‑letter solution for the clue “Parasite’s target,” especially referencing the NYT puzzle dated January 1, 2026.
  • If your puzzle has a different letter count, check crossings, but for a 4‑letter slot, HOST is the expected entry.

TL;DR: For the clue “parasites target crossword clue” , fill in HOST.

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