spartan
adjectiveattested in dialogue
- //ˈspɑː(ɹ)tən//
Austere, frugal, characterized by self-denial.
adjective
- 1
Austere, frugal, characterized by self-denial.
I went on the retreat to the monastery, thinking I would be sleeping in a spartan cell, only to discover a simple but comfortable bedroom.
The engine was Class "3" 2-6-2 tank No. 82013, with Driver Sampson (Exmouth), and its roomy draught-free cab was a striking contrast to the spartan comfort offered on the Drummond tank.
Among its findings, the report says: "In recent years we have seen more stations transformed from run-down Victorian hulks, or spartan bus-sheltered platforms, into places that people can take pride in, feel comfortable in using, and which are fulfilling more of their wider potential.
- 2
Resolute in the face of danger or adversity.
The spartan legionaries vowed to fight to the death.
- 3
Lacking in decoration and luxury.
After ten years as a fashion designer in the rough-and-tumble Garment District, Eloise left New York for the spartan but serene life of a farmer's wife.
[I]t was furnished with the spartan simplicity which characterizes womanless quarters.
Etymology
By analogy with the ancient Spartans, who famously possessed these qualities.
Forms
- comparative
- more spartan
- superlative
- most spartan
spartan · Austere, frugal, characterized by self-denial.
Spartan · A citizen of Sparta; a native or inhabitant of Sparta.spat · The spawn of shellfish, especially oysters and similar…spatter · To splash (someone or something) with small droplets.