Miserly

/ˈmaɪ.zər.li/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
characterized by a strong desire to save money and a reluctance to spend it; stingy.
Her miserly nature prevented her from treating her friends to dinner, even on special occasions.
excessively frugal or mean with money; not willing to share or use resources.
The miserly businessman refused to invest in his employees' professional development.
having a small quantity of something, especially in relation to its value or importance.
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

Cheapskate
He's such a cheapskate, he won't even buy a round of drinks.
Scrooge
Don't be a Scrooge, share with your friends!