Parsimonious

Parsimonious

ˌpärsəˈmōnēəs

Adjective

  • Very unwilling to spend money or use resources.

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Example Sentences

“My grandmother was so parsimonious that she refused to buy any new clothes after 1990, and continued to mend the same dresses for 20 years.”

“It’s smart to watch your budget, but don’t be so parsimonious that you miss out on life because you refuse to spend money.”

“I have to be a little parsimonious this month because I’m saving money for Christmas presents.”

Word Origin

Latin, late 16th century

Why this word?

The origin of “parsimonious” can be traced to the Latin word “parcitās,” meaning “sparingness, moderation.” The Latin word also contributed to other Romance language words for “moderation,” including “parcimonie” in French and “parsimonia” in both Italian and Spanish. As for the English “parsimonious,” it’s moderation, or self-restraint, to the extreme. A parsimonious person is likely to save their money at the expense of their personal satisfaction.

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