Meaning & Definition of word "Miserly"
to
Miserly
/ˈmaɪ.zər.li/
adjective:
- 1. characterized by a strong desire to save money and a reluctance to spend it; stingy.
- Example: Her miserly nature prevented her from treating her friends to dinner, even on special occasions.
- 2. excessively frugal or mean with money; not willing to share or use resources.
- Example: The miserly businessman refused to invest in his employees' professional development.
- 3. having a small quantity of something, especially in relation to its value or importance.
- Example: The miserly rewards offered by the company left employees feeling unappreciated.
Etymology
Originating from Middle English 'misir', from Latin 'miser', meaning wretched or unhappy.
Common Phrases and Expressions
penny pincher:
A person who is very careful about how they spend their money, often to an excessive degree.
money-grubber:
Someone who is overly focused on making money, often at the expense of others.
tight with a buck:
Very reluctant to spend money.
Related Words
miser:
A person who hoards wealth and spends as little money as possible.
stingy:
Unwilling to give or spend; not generous.
parsimony:
Extreme unwillingness to spend money or use resources.
Slang Meanings of miserly
Meaning: Cheapskate
Example Sentence: He's such a cheapskate, he won't even buy a round of drinks.
Meaning: Scrooge
Example Sentence: Don't be a Scrooge, share with your friends!