spar1
n.
a thick, strong pole such as is used for a mast or yard on a ship.
▸the main longitudinal beam of an aircraft wing.
Etymology
ME: shortening of OFr. esparre, or from ON sperra.
spar2
v.
(spars, sparring, sparred)
- make the motions of boxing without landing heavy blows, as a form of training.
- engage in argument without marked hostility.
- (of a gamecock) fight with the feet or spurs.
n.
- a period or bout of sparring.
- informal a close friend.
Etymology
OE sperran, spyrran ‘strike out’, of unknown origin.
spar3
n.
a crystalline, easily cleavable, translucent or transparent mineral.
Derivative
Etymology
C16: from Mid. Low Ger.