paltry

(definition) by Webster 1913 Wed Dec 22 1999 at 1:46:56

Pal"try (?), a. [Compar. Paltrier (); superl. Paltriest.] [Cf. Prov. E. paltry refuse, rubbish, LG. paltering ragged, palte, palter, a rag, a tatter, Dan. pialt, Sw. palta, pl. paltor.]

Mean; vile; worthless; despicable; contemptible; pitiful; trifling; as, a paltry excuse; paltry gold.

Cowper.

The paltry prize is hardly worth the cost. Byron.

Syn. -- See Contemptible.

 

© Webster 1913.

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