frugal
Say it: FROO-gul /ˈfruɡəl/ · adjective
What “frugal” means
Careful with money and resources, avoiding waste.
More precisely: Careful and sparing with money or resources; avoiding waste.
Example: “A frugal year of cooking at home let him pay off his credit card.”
When to use it
For someone who spends carefully and makes supplies last. Usually approving, in everyday conversations about money, food or household habits.
Similar words
thrifty, economical, prudent
Where it comes from
From Latin frugalis, from frux, "fruit, value."
Quick check
Leah repairs her coat and buys only what she needs, while still giving generously to friends. Which word describes her?
stingy or frugal?
Show the answer
frugal
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