Thrift (?), n. [Icel. rift. See Thrive.]

1.

A thriving state; good husbandry; economical management in regard to property; frugality.

The rest, . . . willing to fall to thrift, prove very good husbands. Spenser.

2.

Success and advance in the acquisition of property; increase of worldly goods; gain; prosperity.

"Your thrift is gone full clean."

Chaucer.

I have a mind presages me such thrift. Shak.

3.

Vigorous growth, as of a plant.

4. Bot.

One of several species of flowering plants of the genera Statice and Armeria.

Common thrift Bot., Armeria vulgaris; -- also called sea pink.

Syn. -- Frugality; economy; prosperity; gain; profit.

 

© Webster 1913.