Definition

Noun: 1. A miserly or stingy person who deprives themselves and others of adequate food or resources: The term describes someone who is extremely parsimonious, to the point of causing hardship, especially regarding provisions.

Usage and Examples

• As a subject: "The old pinchgut counted every grain of rice in the pantry."
• As an object: "No one wanted to share a flat with the notorious pinchgut."
• Descriptively: "His pinchgut tendencies meant the office never had proper coffee."

Advanced Usage Notes

• The word is a compound noun formed from "pinch" (to squeeze tightly, to be stingy) and "gut" (stomach, belly). It vividly implies someone who "pinches" or constricts their own stomach by not eating enough to save money.
• It is an archaic and highly critical term, often used for dramatic or humorous effect rather than in formal modern English. It carries a strong connotation of self-imposed and inflicted misery.

Variants and Related Words

• Pinch (verb): To squeeze tightly; to be extremely frugal.
• Skinflint (noun): A very close-fisted, stingy person. (A close synonym).
• Miser (noun): A person who hoards wealth and lives in poor conditions to save money.
• Cheapskate (noun, informal): A person who is unwilling to spend money.

Synonyms

• Skinflint
• Miser
• Niggard (archaic)
• Scrooge (from Charles Dickens's character)
• Tightwad (informal)

Antonyms

• Spendthrift
• Prodigal
• Philanthropist
• Generous person

Noun

1. a niggardly person who starves himself (and others)