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Definition of thrifty

thrifty

/ˈθrɪf.ti/
thrif · ty

Adverb:thriftily
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thrifty Lexical Profile

thrifty Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.

Example

"The thrifty couple saved enough money over five years to make a substantial down payment on their first home."


2

Growing vigorously and thriving in health (used especially of livestock or plants).

Example

"With rich pasture and clean water, the calves remained thrifty and gained weight steadily throughout the spring."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

'Thrifty' and 'frugal' carry positive connotations of wise resource management and avoiding waste, whereas 'stingy', 'miserly', and 'cheap' are pejorative terms implying a selfish unwillingness to spend or share.

• Rhymes for thrifty

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from 'thrift' plus '-y'; 'thrift' comes from Old Norse 'þrift' ('prosperity'), derived from 'þrífast' ('to thrive'). Originally meaning 'thriving' or 'prosperous', the sense shifted to the careful financial habits that produce prosperity.

Cite this Entry


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