Frugal

Frugal is an adjective describing restraint in spending or consumption, emphasizing thrift and prudent use of resources rather than wastefulness. The term derives from Latin frugalis, from frux meaning fruit or produce, and entered English via Old French. In everyday use, a frugal person seeks to maximize value and minimize unnecessary costs, often through budgeting, careful purchasing, repairing rather than replacing, and choosing durable goods or discounts. Frugality can be seen as a lifestyle choice linked to financial security, sustainable living, or personal discipline, and is commonly contrasted with wasteful or extravagant behavior.

The word carries positive connotations when associated with prudent stewardship, but can be neutral or occasionally pejorative if it implies excessive parsimony. Cultural attitudes toward frugality vary: some societies value it as a virtue and practical skill, while others emphasize consumption as a sign of prosperity.

Common practices associated with frugality include cost comparison and price shopping, use of coupons or bulk buying, delaying nonessential purchases for long-term savings, repairing items, reusing and recycling, and adopting energy-efficient habits. In economics and consumer culture, frugality relates to budgeting, saving, and deliberate resource management, and can influence both personal wealth and broader patterns of consumption.