Niggardly: meaning, definitions and examples
π°
niggardly
[ ΛnΙͺΙ‘Ιrdli ]
describing personality
Niggardly describes someone who is stingy or miserly, reluctant to part with their money or resources. A niggardly person tends to hoard their possessions and is often unwilling to share with others. This term carries a negative connotation and implies a lack of generosity. It is important to note that while 'niggardly' refers to frugality, it should not be confused with any racially charged terms. Its usage in modern language is often carefully considered due to the phonetic resemblance to an offensive term.
Synonyms
miserly, parsimonious, stingy, tight-fisted.
Examples of usage
- He was criticized for his niggardly habits regarding donations.
- Her niggardly attitude towards spending made her friends uncomfortable.
- Despite his wealth, he was known for his niggardly nature.
- They received a niggardly amount of help from the organization.
Etymology
The word 'niggardly' has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Old Norse word 'niggr,' meaning 'stingy.' It has been in use since the late 14th century. The term has evolved over centuries, originally used to describe someone who is excessively frugal or unwilling to spend. Despite its long history in the English language, 'niggardly' has faced scrutiny in contemporary usage due to its phonetic similarity to a well-known racial slur. Thus, many speakers and writers now prefer to avoid the term to prevent misunderstandings and to promote sensitivity in language. The cultural and social implications of vocabulary choices underscore the importance of context and the evolving nature of language.