scrimp

verb

ˈskrimp How to pronounce scrimp (audio)
scrimped; scrimping; scrimps
Synonyms of scrimpnext

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 How to pronounce scrimp (audio)
adjective

Synonyms

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That makes eminent sense, given that — even with economic stagnation on much of the continent due in part to the robust welfare states Europeans have built while scrimping on defense spending — Europe as a whole is far wealthier than Russia, with a GDP 10 times larger. — Editorial, Boston Herald, 8 Mar. 2025 However, scrimping on backups often leads to colossal costs down the road. — Nick Martin, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 But in the end, Wolves did not scrimp on spending, with a net outlay set to stand at £39m (when Lemina’s move goes through) to back the judgement of their recruitment team. — Steve Madeley, The Athletic, 4 Feb. 2025 Noise-canceling Headphones Buying high-quality noise-canceling headphones isn’t the time to scrimp, save, or take a chance on a dupe. — Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 13 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for scrimp

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of scrimp was circa 1691

Rhymes for scrimp

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Browse Nearby Words

scrimp
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Cite this Entry

“Scrimp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scrimp. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

scrimp

verb
ˈskrimp How to pronounce scrimp (audio)
1
: to make too small or short : skimp
2
: economize sense 1
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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