Meaning & Definition of word "Sparse"
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Sparse
/spɑːrs/
adjective:
- 1. Thinly dispersed or scattered.
- Example: The vegetation in the desert is sparse, making it difficult for most animals to find food.
- 2. Present only in small amounts; not dense.
- Example: She had sparse knowledge of the topic, just enough to participate in the discussion.
- 3. Lacking in completeness or fullness.
- Example: Their sparse attendance at the meeting raised concerns about the project's future.
Etymology
From Latin 'sparsus', meaning 'spread out' or 'scattered'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
sparse population:
A population that is spread out over a large area with few individuals.
sparse resources:
Resources that are limited in quantity and widely distributed.
sparse vegetation:
Areas where plants are few and far between.
Related Words
scarce:
Insufficient to satisfy the need or demand; not abundant.
scattered:
Spread or distributed over a wide area.
meager:
Lacking in quantity or quality.
Slang Meanings of sparse
Meaning: A lack of something.
Example Sentence: That party was sparse, hardly anyone showed up.
Meaning: Used to describe a minimalist style.
Example Sentence: Her apartment is very sparse, just the basics.