Crossword Genius

Bloodsucking vampire occasionally travelling from the east is heartless (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

parasitic

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'bloodsucking' is the definition.
('parasitic' can be a synonym of 'bloodsucking')

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for parasitic that I've seen before include "Sponging" , "Such threats" , "like a leech" , "to be paid for by someone else" , "Living on another like flea" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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