unsparing

adjective

un·​spar·​ing ˌən-ˈsper-iŋ How to pronounce unsparing (audio)
Synonyms of unsparingnext
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.
The twin currents that run through these and all of his works, including his newest novel, Vigil, about a spirit tending to a dying oil executive, is large-heartedness paired with unsparing wit. Adrienne Lafrance, The Atlantic, 22 Jan. 2026 The judge’s takedown was unsparing. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Jan. 2026 Verizon customers react on social media Verizon customers were unsparing in their reaction to the outage on social media. Jonathan Limehouse, USA Today, 15 Jan. 2026 The judge’s takedown was unsparing. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 Jan. 2026 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 28 Jan. 2026.

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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