skimpy

the word 'skimpy' emerged in the late 19th century, derived from the verb 'skimp', meaning to be sparing or meager. the origin of 'skimp' itself is obscure, though it is often associated with the similar verb 'scrimp', which has roots in scandinavian languages, possibly related to the swedish 'skrympa', meaning to shrink. the addition of the common english adjectival suffix '-y' transformed the action into a descriptive quality, first applied to inadequate amounts of material or provisions. over time, its usage expanded to describe clothing that uses a minimal amount of fabric, emphasizing the core concept of insufficiency or scantiness.

the word 'skimpy' is a simplex formation from the verb 'skimp' with the addition of the adjectival suffix '-y'. 'Skimp' is of unknown origin, possibly related to 'scrimp'.