# spartan

/ˈspɑɹtən/ (US) · /spˈɑːtən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spartan
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 2. relating to ancient Sparta

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

relating to the ancient Greek city of Sparta or its people.

For teachers: pertaining to the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta, known for its military prowess and disciplined social structure.

- We studied the Spartan military tactics in our history class.
- Spartan society was uniquely structured around the needs of the state, prioritising physical fitness and martial skill above all else.

Usage: Usually capitalised in this sense.

### 3. a person from Sparta

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal

a person who lived in the ancient Greek city of Sparta.

For teachers: a citizen or inhabitant of the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta.

- The Spartans were famous for their bravery in battle.
- Every adult male Spartan was required to be a full-time soldier, supported by a large population of unfree labourers.

Usage: Always capitalised.

## Examples

- His bedroom is very spartan, with only a bed and a desk.
- The athletes lived in spartan conditions during their training camp to help them focus entirely on their performance.
- The monastery's spartan aesthetic reflects a commitment to spiritual discipline, eschewing any ornamentation that might distract the monks from their daily meditations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.