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Showing results for spare.
Definitions

spare

[spair] / spɛər /
ADJECTIVE
extra, reserve
Synonyms
STRONGEST
unoccupied unused
STRONG
backup emergency free lagniappe leftover option over supernumerary surplus
WEAK
additional de trop in excess in reserve in store more than enough odd supererogatory superfluous unwanted
Antonyms
WEAK
necessary
ADJECTIVE
thin; sparse
Synonyms
STRONGEST
angular slim
STRONG
lean poor scant scanty shadow skinny slight sparing stick stilt
WEAK
bony economical exiguous frugal gaunt lank lanky meager modest rangy rawboned scraggy scrawny skimpy slender stingy wiry
Antonyms
STRONG
chubby fat great large plump thick
VERB
do or manage without
Synonyms
STRONGEST
afford allow give grant provide save
STRONG
bestow pinch relinquish scrape scrimp short skimp stint supply
WEAK
dispense with part with put by salt away
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deny hold keep refuse take withstand
STRONG
spend waste
WEAK
need
VERB
forgive; have mercy upon
Synonyms
STRONGEST
excuse exempt leave pardon refrain from
STRONG
absolve discharge dispense forbear pity release relent spring
WEAK
bail out be lenient be merciful get off the hook get out of hock give a break give quarter to go easy on let go let off privilege from pull out of the fire relieve from save bacon save from save neck

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Finally, spare a thought for the energy sources that never quite made it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

"I urgently call on parties to spare civilians and civilian objects in all military operations. It is their obligation under international humanitarian law."

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

“Can’t Stop” starts with an uncharacteristically spare riff by Frusciante’s standards, and coupled with Chad Smith’s inerrant rhythm, we have the song’s spine.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

In his spare time, he obsesses about where to find the perfect slice of New York-style pizza.Follow him on Twitter @CharlesPassy.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

I went out the front door, locked it, and put the spare key to the deadbolt in my pocket.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall