Meagerly - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe an action or state done in a way that lacks in quantity or quality

In a meager or minimal manner. To do something with little effort or resources. To perform an action in a way that is barely sufficient or inadequate.

Synonyms

barely, scantily, sparingly.

Examples of usage

She meagerly attempted to finish her homework before the deadline.
He meagerly apologized for his mistake, without showing true remorse.
The company meagerly invested in research and development, leading to a lack of innovation.
They meagerly acknowledged the efforts of the team, failing to recognize their hard work.
The project was meagerly funded, resulting in a subpar outcome.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

When people experience meager resources, it can lead to feelings of deprivation and stress.
Psychological studies suggest that having meager social interactions can impact overall happiness and life satisfaction.
In economic terms, living meagerly can affect mental health, leading to anxiety about financial stability.

Literature

Many authors use the concept of meager settings to highlight characters’ struggles, such as in classic novels depicting poverty.
Poets often describe meager landscapes to evoke feelings of desolation or loneliness, enhancing the emotional depth of their work.
Famous works like Steinbeck’s 'Of Mice and Men' explore the theme of meager living conditions as a critical social commentary.

Cultural Context

In many cultures, the notion of meager living is often romanticized as a way to foster stories of perseverance and resilience.
Festivals around the world may highlight themes of abundance in contrast to meager offerings during times of hardship.
Artistic movements often depict meager existences to evoke empathy and reflection on societal issues.

Economics

Meager wages refer to low-paying jobs that struggle to cover basic living expenses, leading to discussions on minimum wage policies.
In economics, a meager supply can create scarcity, influencing market prices and consumer behavior.
Meager investments, especially in startup businesses, often lead to higher risk and lower chances of success.

Origin of 'meagerly'

Main points about word origin

The word 'meager' comes from the Latin word 'macrus,' meaning thin or lean, which reflects its meaning of being insufficient.
In Middle English, 'megge' was an earlier form of 'meager,' showing how language evolves through time.
The spelling has shifted over centuries, standardizing to 'meager' in the 16th century.

The word 'meagerly' originates from the Middle French word 'maigre', meaning 'thin' or 'lean'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, 'meagerly' has come to signify doing something in a way that is lacking in substance or quality.

Meagerly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations