A "miser" is a person who hoards wealth and is reluctant to spend it, often to the point of living in a way that is uncomfortable or frugal. Misers typically prioritize saving money over enjoying life or helping others, leading to a lifestyle that may seem overly cautious or stingy. The term is often associated with characters in literature and folklore, such as Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Misers are frequently depicted as lonely figures, as their obsession with wealth can isolate them from friends and family, highlighting the emotional costs of their behavior.