What does scrimping mean?
Scrimping refers to the act of cutting down or reducing expenses, often in a way that is considered extreme or necessary. This can involve reducing luxuries, cutting back on non-essential spending, or making significant changes to one's lifestyle. Scrimping can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often associated with a sense of necessity or urgency. It can be used to describe individual actions or collective efforts to reduce expenses. In some cases, scrimping may be seen as a temporary measure, while in others it may be a long-term strategy. Regardless, scrimping is a common practice that can help individuals or organizations manage their finances and stay afloat during difficult times. It requires careful planning, discipline, and often a sense of sacrifice, but it can be an effective way to reduce expenses and achieve financial stability.
verbTo cut down or reduce expenses, especially in a way that is considered extreme or necessary.
- To cut down or reduce expenses, especially in a way that is considered extreme or necessary.
"The family had to start scrimping on luxuries like dining out and vacations."
"The family had to start scrimping on luxuries like dining out and vacations."
"The company had to start scrimping on resources to stay afloat during the economic downturn."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of scrimping
The word 'scrimping' is derived from the verb 'scrimp', which means to cut down or reduce something, often in a way that is considered extreme or necessary. The word 'scrimp' is thought to have originated in the 15th century, and it is likely related to the Old English word 'scrīman', which means to cut or trim.
How scrimping is actually used
Scrimping can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often associated with a sense of necessity or urgency. It can be used to describe individual actions or collective efforts to reduce expenses.