scrimp etymology

Etymology

The word "scrimp" comes from the Middle English word "scrimpen," which means "to be stingy or frugal." It is thought to have originated from the Old Norse word "skrimpa," which means "to pinch or to squeeze."

Meaning

The word "scrimp" has the following meanings:

  • To be stingy or miserly
  • To economize or to save money
  • To do something in a frugal or economical way
  • To withhold or shortchange someone

Origin

The word "scrimp" is first attested in the 14th century. It is thought to have originated from the Old Norse word "skrimpa," which means "to pinch or to squeeze." The word may also have been influenced by the Middle English word "scrimmage," which means "a quarrel or a fight."

Usage

The word "scrimp" is often used in a negative sense to describe someone who is stingy or miserly. However, it can also be used in a positive sense to describe someone who is frugal or economical.

Examples

  • The old man scrimped and saved all his life, so that he could leave a large inheritance to his children.
  • The government is scrimping on social programs, which is causing hardship for many people.
  • I'm trying to scrimp on my spending, so that I can save up for a new car.

Synonyms

  • Pinch
  • Squeeze
  • Skin
  • Stint
  • Withhold

Antonyms

  • Spend
  • Waste
  • Extravagant
  • Lavish
  • Generous

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