Definition of "sparing" [spar•ing]

• Given to or marked by prudence and restraint in the use of material resources. (adjective)
• Deficient or limited in quantity, fullness, or extent. (adjective)
• Forbearing; lenient. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "On September 26, 1946, she and George carried out the charade of their second nuptials—even taking themselves downtown to the New York Municipal Building and obtaining another license—all in the name of sparing her parents “the pain” of their secret elopement."
• "Many patients are over 40% weight loss, with no surgery, and many with surgery, or post protein sparing diets."
• "Today it is the privilege of this joint meeting of The Empire Club of Canada and The Canadian Club to welcome him and to express to him our very sincere appreciation of his kindness in sparing time to come and talk to us."