The Middle English word pittance came from Anglo-French pitance, meaning "pity" or "piety." Originally, a pittance was a gift or bequest to a religious community, or a small charitable gift.
How much money is a pittance?
A pittance is a tiny payment or small reimbursement for work — generally an amount that's inadequate. The restaurant may pay you a pittance, but you can do well if you get a lot of good tips.
How do you remember pittance?
mnemonic : Pittance rhymes with Patience; You need to have patience to work all day for a mere pittance. The opposite of what Brad Pitt Earns. U feel pity for servants who get less payment and can't even afford two time meals..