VocabDictionary

cheapskate

/ˈtʃiːp.skeɪt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person who is unwilling to spend money; a miserly or stingy person.

Example Sentences:
  • He's such a cheapskate that he always finds an excuse not to leave a tip at restaurants.
  • Don't be a cheapskate; let's buy the good tickets for the concert.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “cheapskate”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the United States in the late 19th century, 'cheapskate' combines the adjective 'cheap' (stingy or inexpensive) with 'skate'. In 19th-century American slang, a 'skate' was a contemptible, worthless person or a worn-out horse (similar to a 'nogoodnik'). Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe someone who is extremely reluctant to spend money.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Imagine someone who is so cheap they try to skate away whenever it's time to pay the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions About “cheapskate

1. What is the meaning of “cheapskate” in English?

In English, cheapskate (noun) is defined as: “A person who is unwilling to spend money; a miserly or stingy person.”.

2. How do you use “cheapskate” in a sentence?

He's such a cheapskate that he always finds an excuse not to leave a tip at restaurants.

3. What are English synonyms of “cheapskate”?

Common synonyms include:miser,piker,skinflint,tightwad

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “cheapskate”?

Originating in the United States in the late 19th century, 'cheapskate' combines the adjective 'cheap' (stingy or inexpensive) with 'skate'. In 19th-century American slang, a 'skate' was a contemptible, worthless person or a worn-out horse (similar to a 'nogoodnik'). Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe someone who is extremely reluctant to spend money.