verb
skimp
SKIHMP
Skimp (verb) means to spend or use less of something than is really needed, to save money or effort. Example: “Don't skimp on insulation, or you'll regret it in winter.”
verb
1
To spend or use less of something than is really needed, to save money or effort.
"Don't skimp on insulation, or you'll regret it in winter."
"She refused to skimp on ingredients for the cake."
How to use skimp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo cut corners by not spending or using enough of something.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
skimp on quality
skimp on ingredients
skimp on details
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Word forms
- Plural
- skimps
- Third person singular
- skimps
- Past tense
- skimped
- Comparative
- more skimp
- Superlative
- most skimp
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Don't _____ on insulation, or you'll regret it in winter.
Etymology
Likely of North Germanic origin, related to a root meaning "to mock" or "to gesture," though the modern "save/scrimp" sense developed separately.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for skimp
See all rhymes for skimp →Frequently asked questions
What does “skimp” mean?
The word “skimp” means to spend or use less of something than is really needed, to save money or effort. In plain terms, to cut corners by not spending or using enough of something.
How do you pronounce “skimp”?
“Skimp” is pronounced SKIHMP (/ˈskɪmp/ in IPA).
How do you use “skimp” in a sentence?
Here is “skimp” used in a sentence: “Don't skimp on insulation, or you'll regret it in winter.”
What part of speech is “skimp”?
“Skimp” is a verb.
Where does the word “skimp” come from?
The word “skimp” comes from Germanic. Likely of North Germanic origin, related to a root meaning "to mock" or "to gesture," though the modern "save/scrimp" sense developed separately.
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