First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1spar
noun \ˈspär\
Definition of SPAR
1
: a stout pole
2
a : a stout rounded usually wood or metal piece (as a mast, boom, gaff, or yard) used to support rigging b : any of the main longitudinal members of the wing of an airplane that carry the ribs
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Origin of SPAR
Middle English sparre; akin to Old English spere spear — more at spear
2spar
intransitive verb
: to box with someone as a form of training or practice
: to argue with someone in a friendly way
sparredspar·ring
Full Definition of SPAR
1
a : box; especially : to gesture without landing a blow to draw one's opponent or create an opening b : to engage in a practice or exhibition bout of boxing
3
: to strike or fight with feet or spurs in the manner of a gamecock
Origin of SPAR
Middle English sparren to dart, spring
First Known Use: 1537
3spar
noun
Definition of SPAR
1
: a movement of offense or defense in boxing
2
: a sparring match or session
First Known Use of SPAR
1814
4spar
noun
Definition of SPAR
: any of various nonmetallic usually cleavable and lustrous minerals
Origin of SPAR
Low German; akin to Old English spærstān gypsum, spæren of plaster
First Known Use: 1581
SPAR
noun \ˈspär\
Definition of SPAR
: a member of the women's reserve of the United States Coast Guard
Origin of SPAR
Semper Paratus, motto of the United States Coast Guard, from New Latin, always ready
First Known Use: 1942
SPAR Defined for Kids
1spar
noun \ˈspär\
Definition of SPAR for Kids
: a long rounded piece of wood or metal (as a mast) to which a sail is fastened
2spar
verb
sparredspar·ring
Definition of SPAR for Kids
1
: to box or make boxing movements with the fists for practice or for fun
2
: to argue often in a playful way
Learn More About SPAR
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