sparse
2 synonyms and 0 antonyms for sparse, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Thinly spread out or scattered, with a lot of empty space in between.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use sparse
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin sparsus, "scattered."
Full origin of sparse →Frequently asked questions
What does “sparse” mean?
The word “sparse” means thinly spread out or scattered, with a lot of empty space in between. In plain terms, thin, scattered, or not much of something spread over a large area.
How do you pronounce “sparse”?
“Sparse” is pronounced spahs (/spɑːɹs/ in IPA).
How do you use “sparse” in a sentence?
Here is “sparse” used in a sentence: “The desert had only sparse vegetation.”
What is another word for “sparse”?
Words with a similar meaning to “sparse” include thin and paltry.
What part of speech is “sparse”?
“Sparse” is an adjective.
Where does the word “sparse” come from?
The word “sparse” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin sparsus, "scattered.".
Is “sparse” a common word?
“Sparse” is an uncommon word in modern English.