Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pinch-pennies

idiom
/pɪn(t)ʃ ˈpɛniz/
Definition
To be overly careful or stingy with money, often to the point of compromising comfort or quality.
Examples
  • After losing his job, he had to pinch-pennies just to make ends meet.
  • She started to pinch-pennies on groceries by using coupons and buying in bulk.
Meaning
The term ‘pinch-pennies’ refers to an attitude of extreme frugality, where one tries to save every possible cent, even in situations where spending a little more could enhance the quality of life.
Synonyms
  • be thrifty
  • be stingy
  • scrimp
  • cut corners