Stingy Meaning and Definition
Stingy
Pronunciation
/ˈstɪndʒi/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Stingy refers to being reluctant to part with one’s money or resources; being frugal or miserly. It can also describe someone who is ungenerous or unwilling to share.
Examples
1. “My stingy friend never wants to split the bill at restaurants.”
2. “He’s so stingy that he won’t even buy his own children birthday gifts.”
Synonyms
1. Frugal
2. Miserly
3. Parsimonious
Antonyms
1. Generous
2. Liberal
3. Lavish
Additional Information
Being stingy can be a result of various factors, including financial struggles, past experiences, or a general mindset. However, excessive stinginess can lead to strained relationships and a negative reputation. On the other hand, being frugal can be a positive trait when practiced in moderation, as it promotes responsible financial management and resourcefulness.
In some cultures, being stingy is viewed as a sign of wisdom and prudence, while in others, it is seen as a negative trait that can lead to social isolation. It’s essential to strike a balance between being responsible with one’s finances and being generous when needed.
The concept of stinginess can also be applied to non-financial contexts, such as being reluctant to share time, resources, or attention. In these cases, being stingy can be detrimental to personal and professional relationships.
Etymology
The word “stingy” has its roots in the Old English word “stingan,” which means “to pierce” or “to prick.” Over time, the word evolved to describe someone who is reluctant to part with their resources or is unwilling to share.
Usage Notes
When using the word “stingy,” it’s essential to consider the context in which it is being used. In some cases, being frugal or responsible with finances can be a positive trait. However, excessive stinginess can have negative connotations.
Cultural References
The concept of stinginess has been depicted in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and television. For example, the character of Scrooge in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is a classic example of a stingy individual.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Close-fisted” – describes someone who is reluctant to part with their money or resources.
2. “Pinching pennies” – refers to someone who is extremely frugal or stingy.
Collocations
1. “Stingy with money”
2. “Stingy with time”
3. “Stingy with resources”
Frequency of Use
The word “stingy” is moderately used in modern language, particularly in informal contexts.
Common Misspellings
1. “Stingey”
2. “Stingie”
3. “Stingyly”