niggard
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈnɪɡərd/
KK: /ˈnɪɡərd/
adjective
Definition
Not willing to give or share; stingy or miserly.
Example
He was too niggard to donate even a small amount to charity.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: niggarder
Superlative: niggardest
Conversation
Did you hear about Mark's new car?
Yeah, but I think he's being a bit niggard about showing it off.
I know, right? It's like he doesn't want anyone to share in his excitement.
Exactly! It's more fun when you can celebrate together.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stingy
miserly
parsimonious
Antonyms
generous
lavish
bountiful
noun
Definition
A person who is very stingy and does not like to spend money or share resources.
Example
Despite his wealth, he was known as a niggard who never donated to charity.
Conversation
Have you met that new guy in our class?
Yeah, he seems a bit of a niggard when it comes to sharing notes.
I noticed the same thing; he never offers to help anyone out.
verb
Definition
To be stingy or miserly, especially in giving or sharing resources.
Example
He tends to niggard when it comes to donating to charity.
Tense Forms
Past: niggard
Past Participle: niggard
Conversation
I can't believe how some people niggard they can be with their time.
Yeah, it's frustrating when they don't want to help out.
Exactly! It's like they want to keep everything for themselves.
Root Explanation
Niggard → It originates from Old Norse 'nigla' (meaning to be stingy or miserly) and is related to the Middle English 'niggard' (meaning stingy or miser). The word describes someone who is reluctant to give or spend; hence, it means stingy or miserly.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'stingy' or 'miserly' — that's what 'niggard' means, reflecting a reluctance to give.
Visually Confused Words
unniggard