Needy, penurious (4)
I believe the answer is:
poor
This clue is a double definition.
'needy' is the first definition.
(similar in meaning)
'penurious' is the second definition.
(similar in meaning)
(Other definitions for poor that I've seen before include "In want; below par" , "Penniless" , "Penurious" , "Destitute" , "Mere" .)