noun
spar
spah
noun
1
A strong pole used as a mast, boom, or similar support on a ship or aircraft.
"The sailors repaired the broken spar before the storm hit."
verb
1
To practice fighting or boxing, typically without full force.
"The boxers sparred for three rounds before the real fight."
2
To argue or exchange words in a light, back-and-forth way.
"The two politicians sparred over tax policy during the debate."
How to Use Spar
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a supporting pole on a boat or plane, or friendly practice-fighting (or arguing).
Common pairings
spar with an opponent
sparring partner
Word Forms
sparred past tense, sparred past tense, spars plural, spars plural, spars plural, spars singular, spars singular
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The sailors repaired the broken _____ before the storm hit.
Etymology
From Middle English sparre, meaning "beam" or "rafter," related to a Germanic word for a stake or pole.