scrimp
UK[skrɪmp]US[skrɪmp]
v
to spend as little money as possible; to be very careful and not waste anything, especially money.
Etymology
the word 'scrimp' entered english in the 18th century, likely from a scandinavian source such as the swedish verb 'skrympa', which means 'to shrink' or 'to contract'. this origin vividly connects the physical act of shrinking or making something smaller with the economic behavior of reducing expenditure or using meager amounts. the semantic evolution moved from a literal sense of contraction to the figurative sense of being niggardly or stingy, emphasizing a constricted, sparing approach to resources. its journey into english reflects a pattern where concrete actions provide metaphors for abstract financial habits.
Analysis
the word 'scrimp' is considered a simplex form. it is likely of scandinavian origin, related to swedish 'skrympa' meaning 'to shrink'. its functional role is as a single, indivisible verb stem.
Examples
they had to scrimp and save for years to afford a down payment on the house.
she scrimped on groceries to have enough money for her children's school supplies.
even with a tight budget, he refused to scrimp on quality when buying tools for his workshop.