Economical

/ˌek.əˈnɑː.mɪ.kəl/ adjective

Definition

Using money, resources, or time wisely without wasting them; not expensive.

Etymology

From French 'économique,' derived from Greek 'oikonomia' (household management), combining 'oikos' (house) and 'nomos' (law). The word meant 'managing a household' before becoming about financial efficiency.

Kelly Says

The ancient Greek root reveals that economics started as a domestic concern—how to manage your household resources. It didn't become a science about entire nations until much later, but the word kept that humble origin of careful management.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.