Definition

In a way that is insufficient or lacking in quantity or quality; often used to describe clothing that covers very little.

Example

She wore a skimpily designed dress to the party.

Conversation

Did you see what she wore to the party last night?

Yeah, it was quite skimpily dressed for my taste.

I know, right? I felt a bit overdressed next to her.

Same here! I prefer something a bit more covered up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skimpily → It is formed from 'skimp' (of uncertain origin, possibly from the dialectal 'skimp' meaning to be stingy or to do something in a careless or insufficient manner) and '-ly' (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word 'skimpily' means in a manner that is insufficient or lacking in quantity or coverage.

Memory Tip

Think of doing something in a 'stingy' or 'careless' way ('skimp') — that's why 'skimpily' means doing it insufficiently.

Visually Confused Words