The word "cheapskates" is spelled with a "ch" sound, followed by the long "ee" sound, a "p" sound, and then the suffix "-skates." The "ch" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /tʃ/, which is a combination of the /t/ and /ʃ/ sounds. The long "ee" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /i/, and the "p" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /p/. The suffix "-skates" is pronounced as /skeɪts/. In total, the IPA transcription of "cheapskates" is /tʃiːpskeɪts/.
Cheapskates is a slang term used to describe individuals who have a strong inclination towards frugality, often to an excessive or unreasonable extent. It refers to people who are extremely reluctant to spend money, particularly when it comes to their own expenses or contributions towards shared expenditures. Cheapskates are known for their meticulous penny-pinching tendencies and their habit of seeking out the cheapest possible options in all aspects of their lives.
The behavior exhibited by cheapskates is characterized by a constant focus on saving money, even at the expense of their own comfort or the satisfaction of others. They commonly engage in practices such as haggling excessively over prices, taking advantage of every available discount or coupon, or resorting to extreme measures to avoid spending money altogether. Cheapskates may display an unwillingness to indulge in any form of luxury, often finding satisfaction in finding the cheapest alternatives, regardless of quality or conditions.
While some individuals may simply have a careful approach to finances, cheapskates take it to an extreme level that can sometimes be seen as excessive or even stingy. The term is often used humorously or derogatorily to describe individuals who prioritize saving money over other aspects of life. However, it is important to note that not all financially conscious individuals fall under the category of cheapskates, as their behavior is typically seen as an exaggeration of careful spending habits.
The word "cheapskates" is derived from the combination of two words: "cheap" and "skate".
The term "cheap" originated from the Old English word "ceap", meaning "bargain" or "price". Over time, it developed to refer to something of low quality or value and then extended to describe a person who is unwilling to spend money or is frugal.
The word "skate" refers to a type of shoe with a metal blade used for gliding on ice. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the term "skate" was used as slang to refer to a person, often specifically implying a dishonest or cunning individual. It is unclear why the word "skate" was associated with such qualities, but it may have to do with the smoothness and swiftness characteristic of skating.