penny-ante

[ pen-ee-an-tee ]
/ ˈpɛn iˈæn ti /

adjective Informal.

involving a trifling sum of money; small in amount: a penny-ante investment.
inconsiderable; minor; small-time.

Origin of penny-ante

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Definition for penny-ante (2 of 2)

penny ante

noun

Cards. a game of poker in which the ante or basic bet is one cent.
Informal. any business arrangement or transaction involving a trifling or paltry sum of money.

Origin of penny ante

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example sentences from the Web for penny-ante