Spartan

noun Spar·tan \ ˈspär-tᵊn \

Editor's Note: Did You Know?

Definition of Spartan

1 : a native or inhabitant of ancient Sparta

2 : a person of great courage and self-discipline

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Spartanism

play \ˈspär-tᵊn-ˌi-zəm\ noun

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First Known Use of spartan

15th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

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Spartan

adjective

Definition of Spartan

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

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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.