What does spendthrift mean?
A spendthrift is someone who spends money carelessly, wastefully, or with little regard for future needs. The word is strongly disapproving and is commonly used to characterize a person whose spending repeatedly exceeds what their income or resources can support. It can also be used attributively, as in “spendthrift habits,” or occasionally as an adjective describing a wasteful person. The expression carries a moral judgment, implying not merely that someone has bought something expensive, but that their relationship with money is irresponsible or excessive. Historically, the word was especially associated with heirs or children who dissipated an inheritance. In modern usage, it can refer to irresponsible spending on travel, luxury goods, entertainment, or other luxuries. Its strong connotation makes it more suited to criticism than to neutral description, and it is usually avoided in formal contexts when a more precise term is available.
A person who spends money carelessly or wastefully.
"He was a spendthrift who left his fortune to strangers and creditors."
Strongly disapproving; often implies habitual extravagance or the failure to preserve money.
Characterized by careless or excessive spending.
"The estate was reduced to nothing by his spendthrift ways."
Less common than the noun and normally used attributively or in fixed expressions.
The regular plural is used when referring to multiple people regarded as careless or excessive spenders.
"The trustees described the brothers as spendthifts who had exhausted the estate."
A spendthrift does not merely overspend; they spend as though tomorrow's money will take care of itself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of spendthrift
The word combines “spend” and “thrift,” both of which are long-established English words. “Spend” entered Middle English through Old French despendre, ultimately from Latin expendere, while “thrift” developed from an Old English term associated with prosperity, success, and careful management of resources. Their combination gives the modern word its meaning of wasteful or imprudent spending.
How spendthrift is actually used
The term is traditionally used to describe a person believed to be irresponsible with money. It often carries a strongly disapproving tone and may suggest habitual wastefulness rather than a single excessive purchase.