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paltry

adjective

/ˈpɔːltri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of paltry

Meager, insignificant, or of very little value, typically in terms of quantity, quality, or importance.
"He thought the paltry crowd at the concert was a disappointment."

Detailed meaning of paltry

When we refer to something as paltry, we are emphasizing its lack of substance or worth, suggesting that it falls far short of what might be expected or desired. For example, a paltry sum of money would indicate a small or trivial amount, while a paltry effort implies a lackluster or insufficient attempt. This term conveys a sense of disappointment or disdain for the inadequacy or triviality of something, often serving as a critical descriptor when the quality or quantity of an object or action is considered unsatisfactory or insignificant in comparison to expectations or standards.

Example sentences containing paltry

1. He received a paltry sum for his hard work, which left him feeling undervalued.
2. The company offered a paltry raise to its employees, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
3. The paltry number of attendees at the event was a disappointment to the organizers.
4. Despite his extensive qualifications, he was only offered a paltry position at the company.
5. The team's paltry performance in the match resulted in a humiliating defeat.
6. She was insulted by the paltry tip left by the rude customer.

History and etymology of paltry

The adjective 'paltry' has its origins in Old French. It is derived from the Old French word 'paltre,' which means 'sick' or 'ragged.' Over time, its meaning evolved to connote something meager, insignificant, or of very little value, much like a sick or ragged appearance can appear feeble and lacking in substance. The term 'paltry' came into English to describe things that are of little consequence or worth, typically in terms of quantity, quality, or importance. It emphasizes the idea of something being trivial or inadequate, reflecting its historical connection to the concept of insignificance and a lack of value or substance.

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Further usage examples of paltry

1. The paltry selection of options on the menu left the diners unimpressed.
2. The paltry amount of savings in his bank account left him feeling financially insecure.
3. The project's paltry budget severely limited its potential for success.
4. The paltry amount of time allocated for the presentation made it difficult to cover all the important points.
5. Her paltry wardrobe consisted of a few worn-out clothes and outdated fashion.
6. The paltry supply of food in the refugee camp created a dire situation for the inhabitants.
7. The paltry rainfall during the drought resulted in crop failure and widespread famine.
8. His paltry efforts to apologize for his mistake were not enough to mend the broken relationship.
9. The paltry number of likes on her social media post left her feeling unimportant.
10. The paltry support from his colleagues made him question his place in the team.
11. Despite his hard work, he was rewarded with a paltry bonus that hardly reflected his contributions.
12. The paltry size of the apartment made it difficult to accommodate all their belongings.
13. The paltry interest rate offered by the bank was not worth investing in.
14. The paltry number of pages in the book left the readers wanting more substance.