Definition

reluctant to spend money or give away resources, often to the point of being stingy or ungenerous

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of speech

Adjective

Synonyms

Stingy, tightfisted, parsimonious, economical, ungenerous, cheap

Antonyms

Generous, liberal, munificent, lavish, spending, charitable

Example sentences

  • The miserly old man never gave money to charity, even when he had more than enough.
  • The miserly boss refused to buy new equipment for the office, even though it was badly needed.
  • The miserly customer complained about the price of everything and tried to bargain for a lower price.

Usage

Miserly refers to someone who is extremely frugal or stingy with money. A miserly person is often characterized by their unwillingness to spend money, even on things that are essential or important. Miserly people are often seen as greedy or selfish, as they value money above all else and are reluctant to share it with others. Miserliness can be a personal trait or a cultural value, depending on the individual or society in question. In some cases, miserly behavior may stem from a fear of poverty or a desire to accumulate wealth, while in others it may simply be a matter of personal preference or habit. Regardless of the underlying causes, miserliness can have negative effects on the individual, their relationships, and the wider community, as it can lead to social isolation, poverty, or other problems