The word “parsimonious” comes from the Late Latin term “parsimonia,” meaning “frugality, thrift,” and traces its roots back to the Latin word “parsus,” which is the past participle of “parcere,” meaning “to spare, save, refrain from.” The transition from a focus on thrift and frugality to the modern sense of “parsimonious,” denoting extreme or excessive economy or frugality, and often implying stinginess, reflects the evolution of the word’s usage over time.

The English language adopted “parsimonious” in the late 16th century, carrying over the idea of sparingness from its Latin origins. Initially, it might have carried a more neutral or even positive connotation of prudent and careful management of resources. However, over time, “parsimonious” has come to be used more critically, often suggesting an unwarranted withholding or an excessive frugality that skimps on necessary spending or generosity.

The evolution of “parsimonious” reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards economy and the management of resources, where the balance between thrift and generosity can be culturally dependent and subject to historical shifts in values.