Miserliness
Noun
Definition: The excessive desire to save money; extreme meanness.
Synonyms: Stinginess, Frugality, Penny-pinching
Antonyms: Generosity, Liberality, Lavishness
- His miserliness prevented him from enjoying even the simplest pleasures.
- The millionaire's miserliness was well-known in the town.
- Miserliness - miser + liness. Think of a miser being overly concerned about savings.
Etymology:
The word "miserliness" dates back to the early 18th century and is derived from the noun "miser" + "-ly" (forming an adjective).
Historical Usage:The term has been used consistently to describe the excessive saving behavior or meanness of an individual.
Related Idioms:
Explanation:
While both miserliness and frugality involve careful spending, miserliness implies excessive and extreme behavior, often at the expense of others, whereas frugality is about wise and economical use of resources without being overly stingy.
Misconceptions:
Confusing miserliness with frugality.
Explanation:While both miserliness and frugality involve careful spending, miserliness implies excessive and extreme behavior, often at the expense of others, whereas frugality is about wise and economical use of resources without being overly stingy.