cheap

UK: tʃiːp | US: tʃiːp

Definition

  1. adj. low in price; inexpensive

  2. adj. of poor quality; inferior

  3. adj. (of behavior) stingy or ungenerous

Structure
ceap <trade, bargain>
Etymology

The word "cheap" traces back to Old English cēap, meaning "trade" or "bargain," derived from Proto-Germanic kaupōną (to buy). Over time, its meaning shifted from the act of trading to the notion of low cost or poor quality, influenced by market haggling and the association of low prices with inferior goods. The modern sense of "inexpensive" emerged by the 16th century, while the negative connotation of "poor quality" developed later.

Examples

  1. The store sells cheap clothes that don’t last long.

  2. She bought a cheap flight ticket for her vacation.

  3. He’s too cheap to tip the waiter properly.

  4. Cheap materials were used in the construction of the building.

  5. Don’t be fooled by the cheap price—the product is unreliable.