/thrift/ , n.
1. economical management; economy; frugality.
2. Also called thrift institution . Banking. a savings and loan association, savings bank, or credit union.
3. Also called sea pink . any alpine and maritime plant belonging to the genus Armeria, of the leadwort family, having pink or white flowers, esp. A. maritima, noted for its vigorous growth.
4. any of various allied plants.
5. vigorous growth, as of a plant.
6. Obs. prosperity.
[ 1200-50; ME ]