خسیس (Khasis)
What does خسیس (Khasis) mean? خسیس (Khasis) is a Farsi (Persian) moderate that translates to “cheapskate, miser, tightwad” in English.
Literal Translation
stingy, miserly
Meaning & Usage
01
"cheapskate, miser, tightwad"
Stingy, miserly — someone who hoards money and refuses to share. In Iranian hospitality culture, being 'khasis' is a character flaw that borders on moral failure. The Arabic-origin word carries weight: it's not just 'careful with money,' it's a fundamental deficiency of generosity that makes someone socially repugnant.
Examples in the Wild
'Adam-e khasisi-e, hich vaght dast tush nemireh' — he's a miser, he never reaches into his pocket. A serious character critique in Iranian social life.