PINCHPENNIES Meaning and
Definition
-
Pinchpennies is a term used to refer to individuals who are excessively thrifty or frugal when it comes to spending money. It typically embodies someone who is extremely cautious with their finances, always seeking to save every possible penny and being reluctant to part with their money unless absolutely necessary.
A pinchpenny is someone who displays extreme reluctance in spending money on even basic necessities or enjoyable activities. They tend to prioritize saving over indulging in any form of luxury or unnecessary expenditure.
These individuals meticulously monitor their expenses, often opting for the cheapest alternatives or choosing to forego certain purchases altogether. They frequently aim to avoid any unnecessary expenses, opting for budget-friendly options whenever available.
Pinchpennies are known for their resourcefulness and ability to stretch their money. They are often masterful at finding discounts, promotions, and bargains. They may painstakingly compare prices and shop at multiple stores to find the best deals.
The behavior of being a pinchpenny may stem from various motivations, including a desire for financial security or a fear of future scarcity. However, it can also be driven by an inherent personality trait or simply a personal preference to be frugal.
In summary, pinchpennies are individuals who exhibit extreme thriftiness and reluctance to spend money, often prioritizing saving and seeking to minimize expenses in all areas of their lives.
Common Misspellings for PINCHPENNIES
Etymology of PINCHPENNIES
The term "pinchpennies" is a compound word consisting of two parts: "pinch" and "pennies".
- "Pinch" comes from the Old English word "pincan", meaning "to squeeze or compress tightly". It originally referred to physically squeezing something, but over time, it took on a figurative meaning of being frugal or thrifty.
- "Pennies" is the plural of "penny", which is derived from the Old English word "pening", referring to a small coin used as a unit of currency.
Therefore, the term "pinchpennies" combines the concept of being frugal or thrifty (pinch) with the idea of saving or hoarding small amounts of money (pennies). It is used to describe someone who is excessively cautious with their spending or unwilling to part with even small amounts of money.
