How Do You Spell SKINFLINTS?

Pronunciation: [skˈɪnflɪnts] (IPA)

The word "skinflints" is spelled with the phonemes /skɪn flɪnts/. The first syllable starts with the "sk" consonant cluster followed by the short "i" vowel sound, while the second syllable begins with the alveolar consonant "f" and the "l" liquid sound. The final syllable is composed of the "i" vowel sound, "n" nasal consonant, and "ts" affricate sound. "Skinflints" refers to a person who is unwilling to spend money or who is excessively frugal.

SKINFLINTS Meaning and Definition

1. Skinflints, often used as a plural noun, refers to individuals who exhibit a strong inclination towards extreme stinginess or extreme frugality. The term can also be used to describe individuals who are excessively reluctant to spend money or who place an excessive importance on saving money to the point of being considered miserly. Skinflints tend to be excessively thrifty in their financial decisions and often choose to sacrifice personal comfort or convenience in order to save money.

   These individuals are often characterized by their unwillingness to partake in spending on anything they perceive as unnecessary or extravagant. They meticulously scrutinize expenses, often opting for the most cost-effective alternatives or the cheapest options available, even at the expense of quality or enjoyment. Skinflints commonly showcase patterns of refusal or resistance when it comes to contributing their fair share or being generous in group settings or social situations.

   The origins of the term "skinflint" can be traced back to the combination of the words "skin" and "flint." The word "skin" evokes an image of a tightly stretched surface, suggesting a reluctance to part with possessions or money. "Flint" refers to the hard and compact stone traditionally utilized to create sparks for fire. In essence, this definition paints a picture of individuals who are stingy, unwilling to part with what they have, and hardened in their refusal to spend money or extend financial generosity.

Common Misspellings for SKINFLINTS

• skinnflinte

Etymology of SKINFLINTS

The word skinflints is believed to have originated in the 17th century. The term skin refers to the thinness or tightness of the purse, suggesting someone who is unwilling to part with their money. Flint refers to the hard stone used in creating sparks for fire, thus suggesting a person who is miserly or extremely frugal. The combination of skin and flint emphasizes the idea of someone who is extremely reluctant to spend money and is thus considered a skinflint.