Word for a person that is being taken advantage of financially / leeched off
In English there is the concept of somebody who is a 'leech', and takes advantage of a second person's resources or generosity, financially or otherwise.
What word or phrase could be used to denote the one who is leeched from?
I don't mind whether there are positive or negative connotations to the word - "sugar daddy" is a good American example but not suitable for my (British / Scottish) context. To me this is a good example because it explicitly implies the ongoing leeching relationship, and is not simply an attribute of the person.
edit: In the specific usage I'm looking for, the provision is given consciously by the second party. Beyond that, I don't mind whether the giving relationship is willing or reluctant, personally (e.g. parent) or impersonally (e.g. bank). The word or phrase must function sensibly in the following sentence: "I am not your _____"
Solution 1:
In British English a person is often called a mug if they have allowed someone to take advantage of them (it's a little like being the mark of a scam, but with mark you don't know whether the scam succeeded or failed—with mug you know it worked). I think it's a carney term.
You probably wouldn't say "I'm not your mug" but you'd say "I'm not a mug"—or "Do you take me for a mug?" or "What sort of mug do you think I am?"
American English gives us chump and sucker along the same lines.
Solution 2:
I think 'prey' could fit the bill if you think 'victim' (suggested by @Hotlicks) is a bit strong.
One that is deceived or taken advantage of by another: 'easy prey for swindlers'
[American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition]
Solution 3:
You could say "a soft touch", but this is a more general characteristic meaning that the person is easily tricked or taken advantage of, and doesn't capture the "one side of a specific relationship" aspect.
- a person who is easily convinced, especially to give or lend money:
- a person who is easily influenced, duped, or imposed upon:
(Dictionary.com)
Solution 4:
"I am not your servant" (or subject, or other synonyms)
Servant — M-W
noun a person who serves others
Subject — Dictionary.com
noun 11. a person or thing under the control or influence of another.