Pronunciation: /spɛr/
noun an extra item or amount that is available in case it is needed
A1 I always keep a spare key in case I lock myself out.
A2 Do you have a spare pen I can borrow for the exam?
B1 It's a good idea to have spare batteries for your flashlight when camping.
B2 I need to buy a spare tire for my car in case of a flat.
C1 Having spare time allows me to pursue my hobbies and interests.
C2 She always carries a spare change of clothes in her bag for emergencies.
verb to refrain from harming or destroying; to give up or part with something; to use or give out only in limited amounts
A1 Please spare some time to help me with my homework.
A2 I can spare a few dollars for your bus fare.
B1 I'll spare you the details of my boring day at work.
B2 She decided to spare no expense for her wedding dress.
C1 The CEO spared no effort in expanding the company's global reach.
C2 The judge decided to spare the defendant a harsh sentence due to mitigating circumstances.
formal I always keep a spare set of keys in case I lose the original.
informal Do you have a spare pen I could borrow for a minute?
slang I can't believe he didn't spare any change for the homeless man.
figurative She had no spare time in her busy schedule for any additional tasks.
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