cheapskate

Cheapskate is a pejorative noun used to describe a person who is excessively frugal or unwilling to spend money, even when doing so would be prudent or fair. The term emphasizes stinginess over prudence and is usually used humorously or critically rather than descriptively.

Etymology: The exact origin is uncertain, but "cheapskate" is a compound of cheap and skate, with skate implying someone who dodges paying or avoids responsibility. It dates from early-to-mid 20th century American slang and has since become common in informal speech.

Usage and connotations: The word carries a negative connotation and is often contrasted with neutral or positive terms such as frugal, thrifty, or prudent. Similar slang terms include penny-pincher and tightwad. A cheapskate is typically portrayed as choosing the cheapest option at the expense of quality, fairness, or relationships.

Cultural context and impact: In popular culture, cheapskates appear in jokes and cartoons, and the label can affect how a person is perceived socially or professionally. Some people value thrift and may reject the label; others may see it as a reasonable stance in a tight economy. The line between frugality and being a cheapskate is subjective and context-dependent.

Related terms include penny-pincher, tightwad, and frugality.