Definitions for "Pittance"
An allowance of food bestowed in charity; a mess of victuals; hence, a small charity gift; a dole.
extra serving of food,money, or wine, received by each monastic to celebrate a festive occasion
Pittance (through French pitance and from Latin pietas, loving kindness) is a gift to the members of a religious house for masses, consisting usually of an extra allowance of food or wine on occasions such as the anniversary of the donor's death festivals and other similar occasions. The word was early transferred to a charitable donation and to any small gift of food or money.
A meager portion, quantity, or allowance; an inconsiderable salary or compensation.
Keywords:  inadequate, mere, day, work, payment
an inadequate payment; "they work all day for a mere pittance"