Langimage
English

scanty

|scan/ty|

B2

/ˈskænti/

insufficient or revealing

Etymology
Etymology Information

'scanty' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'skamt,' where 'skamt' meant 'short or brief.'

Historical Evolution

'skamt' transformed into the Middle English word 'scant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'scanty.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'short or brief,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'small or insufficient in quantity.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

small or insufficient in quantity or amount.

The food supply was scanty, barely enough to feed the family.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

(Of clothing) revealing; skimpy.

She wore a scanty dress to the party.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40