Zapasowe

Zapasowe is a Polish adjective meaning spare, backup, or reserve. It describes items kept in reserve to be used as replacements in case of failure, wear, or need for additional capacity. The word derives from the noun zapas, meaning reserve or stock, and is formed with the typical adjectival ending -owe to agree with the noun it modifies.

The form zapasowe is used with nouns of various genders and numbers. For example, koło zapasowe (spare wheel) uses the neuter singular form zapasowe to agree with koło. In phrases like części zapasowe (spare parts) or baterie zapasowe (spare batteries), the adjective also takes the form appropriate for feminine plural nouns. In general, zapasowe precedes the noun it modifies, though its placement after the noun is possible in certain constructions.

Common contexts include transportation, where spare parts or a spare wheel are described as zapasowe, and information technology or general goods, where backup copies or spare items are referred to as zapasowe. The related noun kopie zapasowe denotes backup copies, a standard term in data management and archiving.

Zapasowe is often contrasted with synonyms such as rezerwowy (reserve, intended as a substitute) and awaryjny (emergency-related). While all convey the idea of something kept for replacement or emergency, zapasowe emphasizes readiness and stock kept in reserve rather than a specific planned substitute.

See also: spare parts, spare tire, backup copies, reserve stock.