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Definition of sparsely

sparsely

/ˈspɑːrs.li/
sparse · ly
Adjective:sparse
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sparsely Lexical Profile

sparsely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a thinly dispersed, scattered, or scanty manner; not densely or abundantly.

Example

"The northern plateau is sparsely populated due to its harsh winter climate and rocky terrain."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for sparsely

• Nearby Words

sparrow
sparrowhawk
sparse
sparsely
sparseness
sparsity
spartan

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective "sparse" (borrowed in the early 18th century from Latin sparsus, the past participle of spargere, meaning "to scatter" or "to strew") combined with the adverbial suffix "-ly."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sparsely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sparsely
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