spar
spar Lexical Profile
spar Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To engage in an argument or dispute, typically in a lively, competitive, or good-natured manner.
"The two lawmakers frequently spar over economic policy during committee hearings."
To make the motions of attack and defense with the fists or limbs as a part of training in boxing or martial arts, without landing heavy blows.
"The contender likes to spar with faster opponents during training camp to sharpen her reflexes."
• noun
A thick, strong pole such as a mast, yard, or boom used to support the sails and rigging on a ship, or the main longitudinal structural beam of an airplane wing.
"The crew worked quickly to repair the cracked wooden spar before the storm arrived."
A practice boxing bout, martial arts match, or friendly verbal dispute.
"After a quick three-round spar in the ring, both athletes shook hands and reviewed their footwork."
Any of various nonmetallic, easily cleavable crystalline minerals with a glossy or vitreous luster, such as feldspar, fluorspar, or calc-spar.
"The geologist examined the sample of Iceland spar to demonstrate double refraction to the students."
• Rhymes for spar
Word Origin & Etymology
The noun meaning 'pole' comes from Middle English sparre, borrowed from Old Norse sperra ('rafter, beam') or Middle Dutch sparre. The verb meaning 'to box or dispute' derives from Old English sperran ('to strike out') and Old French esparer ('to kick out'), originally referring to the prelimary thrusts of fighting cocks.