sparsom

Sparsom is a Norwegian adjective describing something that exists in limited quantity or extent. It is used to convey scarcity, scantness, or frugality, depending on the context. The term can refer to resources or features such as vegetation, rainfall, population, or supplies, as well as to behavior or consumption, where it implies restraint or sparing use. The corresponding adverb form is sparsomt, used to describe actions performed in a limited or frugal manner.

In usage, sparsom emphasizes a low level rather than a temporary shortage. For example, a sparsomt befolket område refers to a sparsely populated area, and et sparsomt kosthold describes a lean or austere diet. The word is commonly paired with nouns that denote abundance to highlight the contrast with what is typical or desired.

Etymology and related terms: sparsom is related to the broader Germanic root connected with sparing or conserving. Cognates appear in other Scandinavian languages, where forms such as sparsom or sparsam are used with related meanings—often with nuances tied to economy, frugality, or sparseness. In English, the closest equivalents are sparse, scant, or frugal, depending on the sense being conveyed.

See also: sparse, scarcity, sparing, sparseness.