Search Dictionary
Definition of sparingly

sparingly

/ˈspɛr.ɪŋ.li/
spar · ing · ly
Adjective:sparing
JUMP TO:

sparingly Lexical Profile

sparingly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a restricted, economical, or scanty manner; in small quantities or with restraint.

Example

"Because the concentrated herbal extract is very potent, it should be used sparingly in cooking."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sparingly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sparingly

• Rhymes for sparingly

• Nearby Words

sparerib
sparganium
sparing
sparingly
spark
spark plug
sparker

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the participial adjective 'sparing' (derived from the Old English verb 'sparian', meaning to refrain from hurting or to use economically) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sparingly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sparingly
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.