Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun sparring

2 senses of sparring

Sense 1
sparring -- (an argument in which the participants are trying to gain some advantage)
       => controversy, contention, contestation, disputation, disceptation, tilt, argument, arguing -- (a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement; "they were involved in a violent argument")

Sense 2
spar, sparring -- (making the motions of attack and defense with the fists and arms; a part of training for a boxer)
       => boxing, pugilism, fisticuffs -- (fighting with the fists)

Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of verb spar

4 senses of spar

Sense 1
spar -- (furnish with spars)
       => equip, fit, fit out, outfit -- (provide with (something) usually for a specific purpose; "The expedition was equipped with proper clothing, food, and other necessities")

Sense 2
spar -- (fight with spurs; "the gamecocks were sparring")
       => contend, fight, struggle -- (be engaged in a fight; carry on a fight; "the tribesmen fought each other"; "Siblings are always fighting"; "Militant groups are contending for control of the country")

Sense 3
spar -- (box lightly)
       => box -- (engage in a boxing match)

Sense 4
spar -- (fight verbally; "They were sparring all night")
       => argue, contend, debate, fence -- (have an argument about something)