spare

//spɛər//
B1Frequency Level 9Neutral
Visual representation of spare

Adjective

spareCanonical form
sparerComparative
sparestSuperlative
1

Additional to what is required; extra or surplus.

I always keep a spare key under the doormat.

2

Thin and lean in build.

He has a spare frame from years of running.

3

Plain or simple in style; not elaborate.

The room had a spare, minimalist design.

Antonym

Verb

spareInfinitive
sparePresent tense
sparedPast tense
sparedPast participle
sparingPresent participle
sparesThird-person singular
1

To give or make available something that is not immediately needed.

Can you spare a few minutes to help me?

2

To refrain from harming, punishing, or killing someone.

The king decided to spare the prisoner's life.

3

To use or give frugally; to economize.

We need to spare our resources for the future.

Antonym

Noun

spareSingular
sparesPlural
1

An extra item kept in reserve for use when needed, especially a spare tire.

I always keep a spare in the trunk in case I get a flat tire.

2

In bowling, the knocking down of all pins with two balls.

She picked up a spare in the final frame to win the game.