Here's a breakdown:
* Meaning: To be parsimonious is to be very careful with money and resources, often to the point of being considered cheap or miserly.
* Origin: The word "parsimonious" comes from the Latin word "parsimonia," meaning "thriftiness."
* Usage: You might say someone is "parsimonious with their spending" or that they have a "parsimonious attitude."
* Example: A parsimonious person might:
* Clip coupons and shop for the best deals.
* Avoid eating out and cook at home.
* Turn off lights when leaving a room.
* Reuse and recycle everything possible.
It's important to note that while being parsimonious can be a positive quality, it can also be taken to an extreme. If someone is too parsimonious, it could indicate a lack of generosity or a fear of spending money.