Stingy

Adjective

Definition: Unwilling to give or spend; ungenerous with money or resources.

Synonyms: Miserly, Tightfisted, Frugal, Parsimonious, Mean

Antonyms: Generous, Lavish, Liberal, Openhanded

Examples:

John is so stingy that he never buys anyone a drink.
My boss is a stingy person; he always finds excuses for not giving a raise.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "sting" which means to cause pain or harm, indicating that stingy people cause discomfort by not being generous.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "stingy" originated in the mid-17th century. It derives from the verb "sting" which means to prick sharply or cause pain, suggesting the idea of being unwilling to part with one's resources.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used consistently throughout history to describe individuals who are unwilling to give or spend their money or resources.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Penny-pinching"

Explanation:

This phrase refers to the act of being excessively thrifty or frugal, similar to the behavior of someone who is stingy.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "stingy" with "foolish" or "unwise" in financial matters.

Explanation:

While stingy individuals may appear foolish for not spending or giving, the term specifically refers to a lack of generosity rather than financial wisdom or lack thereof.