frugal

/ˈfɹuːɡəl/adjective

Careful not to waste money or resources; spending only what is needed.

Example sentences

“My frugal grandfather reused the same tea bag twice.”
“Being frugal in college helped her graduate without any debt.”

Compliments where 'stingy' and 'cheap' insult: frugal people manage money wisely, misers hoard it. A frugal meal is a plain and simple one.

Featured as word of the day on June 4, 2026.

Synonyms for frugal

thrifty
economical
careful
sparing
prudent

Antonyms

Often confused with frugal

frugal vs stingy: stingy (adjective): Reluctant to spend money or share things with others; not generous.

Find it in: Positive words, Words to describe a person.

Related words

prodigalSpending or giving something freely and wastefully; extravagant.generousHappy to give freely, especially money or help, and often more than expected.prosperousSuccessful and wealthy; doing well.affluentHaving plenty of money and a comfortable way of life.wealthA large quantity of money, property, or other valuable things.fortuneA very large amount of money.