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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 notes

In 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.

Origin: Middle English

Related words

Rhymes for spar

par
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.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial