Tightwad

/ˈtaɪtˌwɑd/

noun

A person who is unwilling to spend money; a miser.

He's such a tightwad that he wouldn't even buy a coffee for his friend.

Usage tips

Informal

penny-pincher,money-saver,miser

noun

A person who is unwilling to spend money; a miser.

He's such a tightwad that he wouldn't even buy a coffee for his friend.

Usage tips

Informal

penny-pincher,money-saver,miser

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Context

Understanding the social context in which 'tightwad' is used can change its meaning. For example, calling someone 'tightwad' in a friendly way among friends may be playful rather than insulting.

Pro Tip 2/3

Formality

While 'tightwad' is more common in informal settings, it should generally be avoided in professional or formal discussions to prevent sounding disrespectful.

Pro Tip 3/3

Cultural Reference

In some cultures, frugality is viewed positively, which could lead to a different response to calling someone a 'tightwad.'

Pro Tip 1/3

Context

Understanding the social context in which 'tightwad' is used can change its meaning. For example, calling someone 'tightwad' in a friendly way among friends may be playful rather than insulting.

Pro Tip 2/3

Formality

While 'tightwad' is more common in informal settings, it should generally be avoided in professional or formal discussions to prevent sounding disrespectful.

Pro Tip 3/3

Cultural Reference

In some cultures, frugality is viewed positively, which could lead to a different response to calling someone a 'tightwad.'

Pro Tip 1/3

Context

Understanding the social context in which 'tightwad' is used can change its meaning. For example, calling someone 'tightwad' in a friendly way among friends may be playful rather than insulting.

Pro Tip 2/3

Formality

While 'tightwad' is more common in informal settings, it should generally be avoided in professional or formal discussions to prevent sounding disrespectful.