Pinchpenny

Noun

Definition: A person who is extremely frugal or stingy with money; a miser.

Synonyms: Miser, Penny-pincher, Tightwad, Cheapskate

Antonyms: Spendthrift, Prodigal, Extravagant

Examples:

My uncle is such a pinchpenny that he refuses to turn on the heater even in freezing temperatures.
The pinchpenny never treats anyone to a meal; he always expects others to pay.

Mnemonics:

Imagine a person holding a penny so tightly between their fingers that it leaves a mark, symbolizing how tightfisted a pinchpenny is with their money.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "pinchpenny" originated in the early 17th century in English. It combines the words "pinch," meaning to squeeze tightly, and "penny," representing money. The term was commonly used to describe people who were excessively frugal or stingy.

Historical Usage:

The term has been used throughout history to describe individuals who are known for their reluctance to spend money and their extreme thriftiness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Pinchpenny's pence"

Explanation:

This phrase refers to the tiny amounts of money miserly individuals are willing to spend. It highlights their tendency to minimize expenses and save even on the smallest expenditures.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Considering a pinchpenny as someone who is simply frugal or thrifty.

Explanation:

While being frugal or thrifty involves prudent and careful spending, a pinchpenny takes it to an extreme level of miserliness, often refusing to spend money when necessary or being unreasonably stingy.