Miser

A miser is an individual characterized by extreme frugality, often to the point of hoarding wealth and possessions, while neglecting their own comfort or well-being. They are typically driven by a deep-seated fear of poverty and derive a perverse satisfaction from accumulating wealth, even if they never spend it. This behavior is often accompanied by a distrust of others and a reluctance to part with any of their holdings, even for charitable purposes or necessary expenses. The miser's lifestyle is often austere and isolated.

Miser meaning with examples

• Ebenezer Scrooge, a quintessential miser, famously hoarded his wealth and mistreated his employees, prioritizing his financial gain above all else. His transformation in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' highlights the negative consequences of a miserly life. He lived in a dark, cold house and begrudged every penny spent, even on coal to keep warm, a classic portrayal of a miser's callousness.
• Old Man Henderson was notorious in the village for being a miser. He lived in a dilapidated shack, despite his vast stock holdings, refusing to spend a dime on repairs or improvements. He ate meager meals and wore threadbare clothing, proving his reputation. Despite possessing ample funds, he subsisted in poverty, reflecting a miser's self-inflicted deprivation.
• The reclusive millionaire was seen as a miser by many. He invested heavily but lived in a small apartment and donated little to charity, keeping his riches locked away. His focus was on accumulation and little was spent, even on necessities, which made the public view him as a miser, emphasizing his avarice over altruism.
• A cautionary tale from history detailed a wealthy landowner whose miserly ways led him to a lonely end. He shunned social gatherings, lived off scraps, and died alone surrounded by his fortune. The story painted a stark picture of a miser's existence: isolation, deprivation, and a wealth that brought no joy, further highlighting the downsides.