Sparser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sparser
[ˈspɑːrsər ]
Definition
density, frequency
Sparser refers to something that is less densely populated or has a lower frequency or amount. This term can be used in various contexts, such as describing vegetation in an ecological setting, the distribution of data points in statistics, or even the layout of information in design. The implication is that there is more space or fewer items compared to a more dense arrangement. Usage of 'sparser' often conveys a sense of emptiness or lack of abundance.
Synonyms
less dense, more minimal, scarcer, thinner.
Examples of usage
- The forest became sparser as we climbed higher.
- She prefers a sparser design for her home.
- The data set became sparser as the criteria became more stringent.
Translations
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Origin of 'sparser'
The word 'sparse' comes from the late Middle English term 'spars', derived from the Latin 'sparsus', which is the past participle of 'spargere', meaning 'to scatter'. Initially used to describe things that are scattered or spread out with wide gaps, 'sparse' evolved in usage to denote various forms of density in the contexts of population, vegetation, and even information. The comparative form 'sparser' naturally followed as the need to compare levels of sparsity arose. Over time, this term has been utilized in fields as diverse as ecology, mathematics, and data analysis, reflecting its versatility and the evolving nature of language in relation to specialized knowledge.