Meaning & Definition of word "Skimp"

Skimp

/skɪmp/

noun:

  • 1. An act of skimping; a deficiency or lack due to skimping.
    • Example: His work was a real skimp, with several key elements missing.

verb:

  • 1. To provide or use less of something than is necessary or expected; to economize on or be stingy with.
    • Example: She decided to skimp on the decorations for the party to save money.
  • 2. To do something with minimal effort or attention; to perform in a half-hearted or careless manner.
    • Example: You can't skimp on your studies if you want to pass the exam.
  • 3. To omit or neglect to include something; to leave out.
    • Example: Don't skimp on the details in your report; they are important for clarity.

Etymology

Origin uncertain, possibly from the early 19th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

skimp on:

to do something with less than what is needed or expected

don't skimp:

a warning to not be stingy or hold back, especially in spending money

Related Words

scrimp:

to be parsimonious or to use sparingly

stingy:

unwilling to give or spend; mean

frugal:

sparing or economical with regard to money or food

Slang Meanings of skimp

Meaning: To skimp on something, often used informally to imply laziness or lack of effort.

Example Sentence: He totally skimped on studying for the test.

Meaning: Used in a derogatory sense to describe someone who is cheap or unwilling to spend.

Example Sentence: Don't be so skimp; just buy the good stuff already!