Spartan

1 of 2

noun

Spar·​tan ˈspär-tᵊn 

1

: a native or inhabitant of ancient Sparta

2

: a person of great courage and self-discipline

Spartanism

ˈspär-tᵊn-ˌi-zəm 

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

: laconic

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.

Synonyms

Adjective

• austere
• no-frills
• stark

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1561, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

Spartan

1 of 2 noun

Spar·​tan ˈspärt-ᵊn 

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