spar
UK: spɑː | US: spɑːr
n. a thick, strong pole used on ships for masts or booms
n. a mineral that cleaves easily into flakes or crystals
vi. to argue or dispute, often in a friendly manner
vi. (boxing) to practice fighting with light, controlled blows
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The word "spar" originates from Old English sperrian, meaning "to fasten with a bar," and is related to "spear," reflecting its early use as a pole or beam. Over time, it expanded to describe minerals that split like wooden beams (e.g., feldspar) and later took on figurative meanings like verbal or physical combat, evoking the image of clashing "poles" in argument or boxing.
The sailors hoisted the sail onto the wooden spar.
Calcite and quartz are common types of spar.
The two friends often spar over politics but remain close.
The boxers sparred lightly to avoid injuries.
Geologists study the crystalline structure of spar minerals.