1. lacking in quantity or quality; inadequate or insufficient
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is ‘meager’
2. thin and lacking flesh; gaunt
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is ‘meager’

Examples

• The refugees survived on meagre rations for weeks.
• His meagre salary barely covered the rent.
• The harvest was meagre due to the drought.
• She offered only meagre praise for his efforts.
• The old man’s meagre frame suggested years of hardship.
• The restaurant served meagre portions at high prices.
• Their meagre savings wouldn’t last through winter.