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Thrift — prosperity, thriving. Thrift means Thrive

”take”— to grow

spend your prosperity or wealth

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The word “spendthrift” might seem contradictory at first glance because it combines “spend,” which implies using up resources, with “thrift,” which suggests saving. However, the etymology clarifies this apparent paradox.

Origins:

• Thrift: Originally, the word “thrift” didn’t just mean frugality; it stemmed from the Old Norse word “þrift”, meaning “prosperity” or “thriving.” In Middle English, “thrift” referred to wealth or profits gained through good economic management.

• Spendthrift: Combining “spend” with this older sense of “thrift” (wealth), the term “spendthrift” emerged in the late 16th century. It literally means “one who spends their prosperity or wealth.”

Evolution of Meaning:

• Over time, as “thrift” evolved to emphasize frugality and careful management of resources, “spendthrift” maintained its original meaning.

• Today, “spendthrift” refers to someone who is extravagant or wasteful, often spending money recklessly without considering the consequences.

Usage Example:

• “Despite his substantial inheritance, his spendthrift habits left him penniless within a few years.”

In summary, the term “spendthrift” originates from an older meaning of “thrift” as wealth, so a “spendthrift” is someone who squanders their wealth, not someone who spends frugally.