noun
spar
spah
Spar (noun) means a strong pole used as a mast, boom, or similar support on a ship or aircraft. Example: “The sailors repaired the broken spar before the storm hit.”
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- spars
- Third person singular
- spars
- Past tense
- sparred
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for spar
See all rhymes for spar →Frequently asked questions
What does “spar” mean?
The word “spar” means a strong pole used as a mast, boom, or similar support on a ship or aircraft. In plain terms, either a supporting pole on a boat or plane, or friendly practice-fighting (or arguing).
How do you pronounce “spar”?
“Spar” is pronounced spah (/spɑɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “spar” in a sentence?
Here is “spar” used in a sentence: “The sailors repaired the broken spar before the storm hit.”
What part of speech is “spar”?
Depending on how it is used, “spar” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “spar” come from?
The word “spar” comes from Middle English. From Middle English sparre, meaning "beam" or "rafter," related to a Germanic word for a stake or pole.
How many meanings does “spar” have?
“Spar” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a strong pole used as a mast, boom, or similar support on a ship or aircraft.
