Definition

The quality of being unwilling to spend money or share resources; being cheap or miserly.

Example

His stinginess made it difficult for him to make friends, as he rarely treated anyone to dinner.

Conversation

Have you noticed his stinginess when it comes to sharing food?

Yeah, it's surprising because he usually seems so friendly.

I guess it's just hard for some people to let go of their stuff.

True, but a little generosity goes a long way in friendships.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stinginess → It is formed from "stingy" (from Middle English *stingy*, meaning miserly or unwilling to spend) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "stinginess" refers to the quality of being stingy or unwilling to share or spend money.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'miserly' ('stingy') and remember that 'stinginess' describes the state of being unwilling to share.

Visually Confused Words