Main Entry: ²spar

Function: intransitive verb

Inflected Form(s): sparred; spar·ring

Etymology: Middle English sparren to dart, spring

Date: 1537

1 a : box; especially : to gesture without landing a blow to draw one's opponent or create an opening b : to engage in a practice or exhibition bout of boxing
2 : skirmish, wrangle
3 : to strike or fight with feet or spurs in the manner of a gamecock