Closefisted
mediumNegative toneKLOHS-fis-tid
adjective
Definition
Unwilling to spend money; miserly
Memory hook
CLOSE-FISTED: fist closed tight around money — stingy and unwilling to spend.
Examples
“The closefisted landlord refused to make necessary repairs.”
“Despite his wealth, he remained closefisted with his employees.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ landlord refused to make necessary repairs.”
Show answer
closefisted
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Closefisted is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "miserly" or "parsimonious" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "generous".
Related GRE Words
tightfisted
Not willing to spend or give much money; stingy
miserly
Of or characteristic of a miser; stingy and hoarding wealth
stinting
Restrictive or ungenerous in giving or spending
niggardly
Not generous; stingy (note: no racial connection despite sound)
parsimonious
Unwilling to spend money or use resources; stingy
frugal
Sparing or economical with regard to money or food
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