Which term describes a person who is cheap or unwilling to spend money?

The term that best describes a person who is cheap or unwilling to spend money is "stingy." This word has a negative connotation, suggesting that the person not only refrains from spending money but may also be unwilling to share or give to others, reflecting an extreme frugality that often comes across as avarice or meanness.

In contrast, "frugal" can describe someone who is careful with money but doesn't necessarily imply that they are unwilling to spend when it's necessary or reasonable. Frugal individuals often look for ways to save and manage resources wisely rather than avoiding spending entirely.

The terms "generous" and "extravagant" represent the opposite of stinginess. Generous individuals are willing to share their resources and money freely, while extravagant individuals are characterized by excessive spending without consideration of costs. Thus, stingy accurately captures the essence of a person unwilling to spend money, differentiating them clearly from those who have a more positive or indifferent attitude towards money management.