Waste not, want not

Meaning

Thrift prevents future need.

Usage

Used when teaching frugality.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Proverb advising careful use of possessions.

Old English proverb from at least the 17th century.