Definition

Having fewer things or being less dense than something else.

Example

The forest became sparser as we moved further up the mountain.

Conversation

I noticed that the forest looks a bit sparser than last year.

Yeah, I think the drought affected a lot of the trees.

It’s sad to see it change, isn’t it?

Definitely, I hope it can recover soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sparser → It is formed from "sparse" (from Latin "sparsus", meaning scattered) and the comparative suffix "-er" (indicating a greater degree). The word "sparser" means having a greater degree of being scattered or less densely arranged.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'scattered' ('sparse') and remember that 'sparser' means it is even more scattered or less dense.

Visually Confused Words