scrimp

verb

ˈskrimp 

scrimped; scrimping; scrimps

transitive verb

1

: to be stingy in providing for

2

: to make too small, short, or scanty

intransitive verb

: to be frugal or stingy

scrimpy

ˈskrim-pē 

adjective

Synonyms

• economize
• pinch
• save
• skimp
• spare

Examples of scrimp in a Sentence

They scrimped and saved for their big vacation.

had to scrimp and save for years in order to be able to afford a house

Recent Examples on the Web

The bigwig’s beliefs and way of life present a stark contrast to those of his scrimping and saving father, who is heavily dependent on the kindness of family, friends and strangers. —Alissa Simon, Variety, 25 Nov. 2024

Opponents say many of them scrimped and saved for modest second homes and they shouldn’t be punished for the region’s lack of affordable housing. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 31 Oct. 2024

Related Articles Harriette Cole: Why should the bride’s friend have to scrimp for months? —Harriette Cole, The Mercury News, 8 Oct. 2024

While critics have argued for years that the health plans cost taxpayers too much, the industry also has come under fire more recently for allegedly scrimping on vital health care, even dumping hundreds of thousands of members whose health plans proved unprofitable. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Swedish skrympa to shrink, Middle Low German schrempen to contract — more at shrimp

First Known Use

circa 1691, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

scrimp

verb

ˈskrimp 

1

: to make too small or short : skimp

2

: economize sense 1