Definition
To save money, time, or resources by using less of them or setting them aside for later.
Example
Ich spare jeden Monat etwas Geld für den Urlaub.
Show translation
I save some money every month for the vacation.
Etymology
From Middle High German *sparen*, Old High German *sparōn* ("to spare, save"), related to Old English *sparian* and modern English "spare." The Proto-Germanic root *\*sparōną* carries the core sense of holding back or preserving something.
Cultural note
Germans have a strong cultural association with *Sparsamkeit* (frugality/thriftiness), often regarded as a civic virtue. The compound *Sparbuch* (savings book) was a household staple for generations, and Germany's high household savings rate reflects this cultural emphasis. The proverb *"Spare in der Zeit, so hast du in der Not"* — "Save in good times, and you'll have enough in hard times" — is widely known.