skimp

[skimp]

verb (used without object)

1. to scrimp.

   Synonyms: pinch, stint

verb (used with object)

1. to scrimp.

   Synonyms: pinch, stint

2. to scamp.

adjective

1. skimpy; scanty.

skimp

/ skɪmp /

verb

1. to be extremely sparing or supply (someone) sparingly; stint

2. to perform (work, etc) carelessly, hastily, or with inadequate materials

Other Word Forms

• skimpingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of skimp¹

First recorded in 1875–80; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of skimp¹

C17: perhaps a combination of _scant and _scrimp

Example Sentences

TJ’s Tiniest Chocolate Chip Cookies may be “tiny,” but they certainly don’t skimp on decadence and chocolate chips.

From Salon

“This shortfall not only undercuts their livelihoods but highlights the glaring hypocrisy of a luxury establishment profiting handsomely while skimping on fair pay for those who make it shine.”

From Los Angeles Times

Made with sour cream, cream cheese and cheddar that’s flavored with roasted Hatch chiles and jalapeños, the dip doesn’t skimp on dairy or heat.

From Salon

But like the vast majority of Moore’s clients, Blake is mostly content to wait, knowing his go-to refinisher has never skimped on quality.

From Los Angeles Times

And if you do happen to be a golfer, if you know a birdie from an eagle, an iron from a wood, “Stick” doesn’t skimp on the sports stuff.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• scrimp 

When To Use

What does skimp mean?

Skimp most commonly means to provide too little or be stingy when supplying someone with something, as in This place always skimps on the salad dressing, so I usually order some extra on the side. The word is often used in the command don’t skimp, which is a request not to provide an amount that the speaker considers inadequate, as in Hey, don’t skimp on the ice cream—I want a big scoop!To skimp on materials when making or constructing something is to use ones that are low-quality or to use fewer than are needed to do the job properly.Skimp is a synonym of scrimp, but scrimp most commonly means to be frugal by finding ways to avoid spending money. It’s especially used in the phrase scrimp and save, as in We had to scrimp and save just to afford this trip. The adjective skimpy can mean stingy or lacking in some way. It’s especially used to describe an outfit that’s considered a bit revealing due to not covering as much as might be usual.Example: Don’t skimp on the butter when you make the cookies or they’ll turn out dry and brittle.