spare Definition
- 1to give something to someone, especially money, that you can afford to give them
- 2extra or unused
- 3thin and not covered with much flesh
Using spare: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spare" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Can you spare me a few minutes?
Example
He spared no expense in decorating the house.
Example
I have a spare key if you need it.
Example
She is very spare and doesn't eat much.
Example
We have some spare time before the meeting.
Example
He asked for a spare pencil.
spare Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using spare
Example
The company spared no effort in launching their new product.
spare someone's feelings
to avoid hurting someone's feelings
Example
I didn't tell her the truth to spare her feelings.
Example
In my spare time, I like to read books.
Phrases with spare
Example
Do you have any spare change for the parking meter?
Example
Make sure you have a spare tire in your car before going on a long road trip.
Example
We have a spare room that you can stay in if you need a place to sleep.
Origins of spare
from Old English 'spær', meaning 'scanty'
Summary: spare in Brief
The term 'spare' [sper] has multiple meanings. As a verb, it means to give something to someone, especially money, that you can afford to give them. As an adjective, it means extra or unused, and thin and not covered with much flesh. As a noun, it refers to an extra item. It is used in phrases such as 'spare change,' 'spare tire,' and 'spare room.' Idioms include 'spare no effort,' 'spare someone's feelings,' and 'spare time.'
