Niggard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
niggard
[หnษชษกษrd ]
Definition
behavior, style
The term 'niggard' describes someone who is stingy or miserly, particularly in terms of money or resources. It indicates a reluctance to spend or give, often leading to an impression of being ungenerous.
Synonyms
miserly, parsimonious, stingy, stingy, tight-fisted.
Examples of usage
- He was niggard with his praise.
- Despite his wealth, he remained niggard in his contributions to charity.
- The niggard attitude of the landlord frustrated the tenants.
Translations
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Origin of 'niggard'
The word 'niggard' has its roots in the Old Norse word 'nigla,' which means to fuss about small amounts or to be frugal. The term first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century, embodying a sense of excessive caution when it comes to money. Despite its meaning, the word 'niggard' has often been misinterpreted due to its phonetic similarity to a racially charged term. This unfortunate audibility has led to a decline in its usage in modern contexts, even though its original meaning is entirely separate. In literature, it has been employed by various authors, including Shakespeare, to depict negative traits associated with greed and parsimony. Over time, the complexity of societal perceptions surrounding the word has created a challenging landscape for its acceptance in contemporary dialogue.