sparse

[spahrs]

adjective

sparser, sparsest 

1. thinly scattered or distributed.

   a sparse population.

   Antonyms: abundant

2. not thick or dense; thin.

   sparse hair.

   Antonyms: abundant

3. scanty; meager.

   Antonyms: abundant

sparse

/ spɑːs /

adjective

1. scattered or scanty; not dense

Other Word Forms

• sparsely adverb
• sparsity noun
• sparseness noun
• unsparse adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sparse¹

First recorded in 1715–25; from Latin sparsus, past participle of spargere “to scatter,” sparge

Word History and Origins

Origin of sparse¹

C18: from Latin sparsus, from spargere to scatter

Synonym Study

See scanty.

Example Sentences

He added that based on "very sparse information provided publicly by the US authorities, none of the individuals on the targeted boats appeared to pose an imminent threat to lives of others".

Read more on BBC

While campgrounds in the U.S. are typically sparse, European campgrounds often resemble mini-resorts, with pools, restaurants, Wi-Fi, laundry, grocery stores and even evening entertainment.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

While some states have laws mandating that private health insurance pay for at least a few rounds of IVF, those benefits are sparse in much of the country.

Read more on Salon

Almost one year post-fire, lots are cleared of ash and sparse patches of grass are sprouting through some of the dirt.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

According to the sparse indictment, Ms. James’s alleged misrepresentation allowed her to save $18,933 over the life of the loan.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• inadequate 
• infrequent 
• meager 
• scant 
• scanty 
• scarce 
• skimpy 
• sporadic 
• thin