spartle

intransitive verb

spar·​tle

ˈspärtᵊl

-ed/-ing/-s

Scottish

: to kick about : sprawl

Word History

Etymology

Dutch spartelen, from Middle Dutch spartelen, spertelen, sportelen; akin to Middle Low German spartelen, sportelen, spertelen to sprawl, thrash about, Old High German sprazzalōn, Norwegian spratla to sprawl, thrash about, Old High German sprinzan to jump up

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now