Definition of the word measly

The origin of the word "measly" can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was used as a noun meaning "something resembling a measuring jar or flask, as used in scientific experiments." Over time, the word's meaning evolved, and by the 18th century, it had taken on a new meaning as an adjective, "characterized by or relating to measuring or measurement." This usage can still be seen in technical contexts, such as in the phrase "measly dosage." In the 19th century, the meaning of "measly" began to shift again, this time in a more negative direction. It came to be used to describe things that were too small or insignificant, as in "a measly handful of grapes." The word's origins in measuring likely contributed to this new meaning, as measuring things can help to determine their size and value. Something that was "measly" was, therefore, too small or insignificant to be worth measuring. Overall, the progression of "measly" from a noun related to measuring to an adjective meaning "insignificant or too small" illustrates the way meaning can change and develop over time, influenced by historical context and the etymological roots of a word.