unsparing

adjective

un·​spar·​ing ˌən-ˈsper-iŋ How to pronounce unsparing (audio)
1
: not merciful or forbearing : hard, ruthless
an unsparing satire
an unsparing critic
2
: not frugal : liberal, profuse
unsparing generosity
unsparingly adverb

Examples of unsparing in a Sentence

neighbors were unsparing in their charity when a local family was rendered homeless by a fire unsparing in his criticism of the welfare state
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Donald was also unsparing in his focus on rest and recovery once the Europeans arrived on site. Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 Elliot was unsparing in the book about his treatment by Ric on that, about his diminished role. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 26 Sep. 2025 The Long Walk is unsparing in its depiction of violence, as well as the other indignities the boys face along the way. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025 The lyrics, and the delivery, were unsparing in expressing their love and sadness. Piet Levy, jsonline.com, 18 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unsparing

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsparing was circa 1586

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unsparing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsparing. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

unsparing

adjective
un·​spar·​ing ˌən-ˈspa(ə)r-iŋ How to pronounce unsparing (audio)
-ˈspe(ə)r-,
ˈən-
1
: not merciful or forgiving : hard, ruthless
unsparing attacks
2
: not stingy : liberal
unsparing in their gifts to charity
unsparingly adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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