Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Spar \Spar\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Sparred}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Sparring}.] [Of uncertain origin; cf. OF. esparer to kick,
   F. ['e]parer, or Icel. sperra to stretch out the legs, to
   struggle.]
   1. To strike with the feet or spurs, as cocks do.

   2. To use the fists and arms scientifically in attack or
      defense; to contend or combat with the fists, as for
      exercise or amusement; to box.

            Made believe to spar at Paul with great science.
                                                  --Dickens.

   3. To contest in words; to wrangle. [Colloq.]

Source : WordNet®

sparring
     n 1: an argument in which the participants are trying to gain
          some advantage
     2: making the motions of attack and defense with the fists and
        arms; a part of training for a boxer [syn: {spar}]

spar
     n 1: any of various nonmetallic minerals (calcite or feldspar)
          that are light in color and transparent or translucent
          and cleavable
     2: a stout rounded pole of wood or metal used to support
        rigging
     3: making the motions of attack and defense with the fists and
        arms; a part of training for a boxer [syn: {sparring}]
     [also: {sparring}, {sparred}]

spar
     v 1: furnish with spars
     2: fight with spurs; "the gamecocks were sparring"
     3: box lightly
     4: fight verbally; "They were sparring all night"
     [also: {sparring}, {sparred}]

sparring
     See {spar}