A miser is someone who hoards money and hates spending it, even on things they need or could easily afford. Misers obsess over saving every penny, not because they have a specific goal or are being responsible, but because they can't stand the idea of parting with money at all.

Picture someone who has thousands of dollars in the bank but won't turn on the heat in winter, or who refuses to buy their kids new shoes even though the old ones have holes. That's a miser. Misers make themselves miserable by denying themselves and others any enjoyment their money could bring.

Being frugal or careful with money is smart, but a miser takes it to an extreme that hurts relationships and quality of life. The story A Christmas Carol features literature's most famous miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, who valued his gold more than people until he learned what really mattered. A miserly person might have plenty of wealth but live like a pauper, missing out on experiences, generosity, and joy because they can't let go of their grip on every coin.