Definition

The quality of being insufficient or lacking in quantity or size.

Example

The skimpiness of the meal left everyone feeling hungry.

Conversation

Did you notice the skimpiness of the fabric on that dress?

Yeah, I thought it looked a bit too revealing for my taste.

Right? I prefer something that feels more comfortable.

Same here, I like my clothes to have a little more coverage.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skimpiness → It is formed from "skimp" (of uncertain origin, possibly related to the dialectal English word 'skimp', meaning to be stingy or to do something in a careless or insufficient manner) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "skimpiness" refers to the quality of being insufficient or lacking in quantity or extent.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'stingy' or 'careless' when you hear 'skimp' — and remember that '-ness' indicates a state, so skimpiness means the state of being insufficient.

Visually Confused Words