Paltry (adjective)

1. Insignificant or worthless.
2. Meaningless or trivial.

Origin:

Derived from the middle english word "paltri" meaning "worthless".

Examples:

1. The amount of money offered was paltry compared to the cost of the project.
2. The excuse was paltry and did not excuse his behavior.
3. The performance was paltry and not up to the standards.
4. The effort was paltry and not enough to achieve the goal.
5. The reward was paltry and not worth the effort.