Meaning & Definition of word "Miserly"

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!