Spartan

1 of 2

noun

Spar·​tan ˈspär-tᵊn How to pronounce Spartan (audio)
1
: a native or inhabitant of ancient Sparta
2
: a person of great courage and self-discipline
Spartanism noun

Spartan

2 of 2

adjective

1
: of or relating to Sparta in ancient Greece
2
a
often not capitalized : marked by strict self-discipline or self-denial
a Spartan athlete
b
often not capitalized : marked by simplicity, frugality, or avoidance of luxury and comfort
a Spartan room
c
d
: undaunted by pain or danger
Spartanly adverb

Did you know?

In ancient times, the Greek city-state of Sparta had a reputation for the severe and highly disciplined way of life it enforced among its citizens, so as to keep them ready for war at any time. Physical training was required for both men and women. A boy would begin his military training at 7 and would live in army barracks for much of his life, even after he was married. Today, when a cargo ship or a remote beach resort offers "spartan accommodations", some tourists jump at the chance for a refreshing change from the luxuries they've been used to—and no one worries that they'll be forced out of bed at dawn to participate in war games.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1561, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Spartan was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near Spartan

Cite this Entry

“Spartan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Spartan. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Spartan

1 of 2 noun
Spar·​tan ˈspärt-ᵊn How to pronounce Spartan (audio)
1
: a person born or living in ancient Sparta
2
: a person of great courage and self-discipline

Spartan

2 of 2 adjective
1
: of or relating to Sparta in ancient Greece
2
often not capitalized
a
: marked by strict self-discipline or self-denial
a Spartan athlete
b
: marked by absence of comfort and luxury
a Spartan room
spartanly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on Spartan

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