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Definition of unsparing

unsparing

/ʌnˈspɛər.ɪŋ/
un · spar · ing
Adverb:unsparingly
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unsparing Lexical Profile

unsparing Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Merciless, severe, and holding nothing back in criticism, judgment, or treatment.

Example

"The biographer offered an unsparing account of the politician's early career mistakes."

2

Generous, lavish, and giving freely without restraint (especially of time, effort, or praise).

Example

"She was unsparing in her efforts to mentor the new researchers in the laboratory."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for unsparing

Word Nuance & Usage

'Unsparing' has a dual polarity depending on context: when applied to criticism or treatment, it means harsh and merciless, whereas when applied to praise, effort, or generosity (often followed by 'in' or 'of'), it means lavish and holding nothing back.

• Rhymes for unsparing

• Nearby Words

unsoundly
unsoundness
unsourced
unsparing
unsparingly
unspeakable
unspeakably

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix 'un-' (not) and 'sparing', the present participle of 'spare' (from Old English 'sparian', meaning to refrain from harming or to use frugally).

Cite this Entry

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