'freeload' originates from the combination of 'free' and 'load', where 'free' meant 'without cost' and 'load' referred to 'a burden or weight'.

'freeload' evolved from the concept of 'free loading', which was used to describe the act of loading goods without charge.

Initially, it meant 'to load goods without charge', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'taking advantage of others' generosity without reciprocation'.