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Definition of scanty

scanty

/ˈskæn.ti/
scan · ty
Adverb:scantily
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scanty Lexical Profile

scanty Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Small or insufficient in quantity, amount, or extent.

Example

"Historians had to piece together the timeline from the scanty evidence that survived the fire."

2

Smaller in size or coverage than is considered modest or customary (used especially of clothing).

Example

"The performers wore scanty costumes despite the chilly evening air."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for scanty

• Rhymes for scanty

• Nearby Words

scantily
scantiness
scantness
scanty
scapegoat
scapegoater
scapula

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'scant' plus the suffix '-y', with 'scant' originating from Old Norse 'skammr', meaning 'short' or 'brief'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Scanty. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/scanty
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