Probably borrowed from Low German ribbesper, from , from ribbe + sper. The word was transposed, with the first element becoming confused with English [[spare#Adjective due to folk-etymology. Compare also English ribspare .
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.