noun
niggard
NIG-erd/nˈɪɡɝd/
A person unwilling to spend or share money.
He is such a niggard that he refuses to tip.
Etymology
Middle English nigard already meant a miser. Its origin is uncertain, though its ending suggests the disparaging person-label suffix -ard, fitting the word’s disapproval of someone unwilling to spend or give.
More examples
- Don't be a niggard; pay your share of the bill.
- The wealthy niggard complains about every dollar she spends.
- Even the niggards in our group contribute a few dollars.
Forms
niggard · niggards
niggardly adjective — Unwilling to spend or share money.
Similar words
- miser
- Emphasizes hoarding money, often while living very cheaply.
- cheapskate
- An informal alternative for someone who avoids spending money.