ScienceAugust 11, 2026

thrifty

THRIF-tee

Definition

Characterized by an ability to survive or store energy efficiently, often in response to limited resources.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'thrift,' meaning prosperity or thriving, which comes from the Old Norse word 'thrifask,' meaning to flourish or succeed.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe a hypothetical 'thrifty gene' or metabolism that evolved to hoard calories, which may now lead to weight gain in environments with abundant food.

Trouble losing weight? It might be your gut microbes, not your genes

Read the full article ↗

ASU News

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