paltry
|pal-try|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈpɔltri/
🇬🇧
/ˈpɔːltri/
insignificant
Etymology
Etymology Information
'paltry' originates from the German word 'palterig,' which meant 'ragged or worthless.'
Historical Evolution
'palterig' transformed into the Middle English word 'paltrey,' and eventually became the modern English word 'paltry.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'ragged or worthless,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'insignificant or meager.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
insignificant or meager in amount or quality.
The company offered a paltry sum for the old car.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/04 05:51