British english to American english translation request

[Paul Henry]

I believe the word is a pronounced and spelled variation of the word spar meaning (among other things) to bandy words about in argument: to hotly dispute. The examples with the bucket of mud/new car really convey the texture of the word when used in context.

Actually no... it is pronounced spare....!! as in spare tyre... or spare tire for the US ,,, and Pleater's description had me smiling , remembering back to my days a child in a very similar situation!

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I'm familiar with the word "spare", that's why I suggested that it was a variation of the word "spar" both in spelling (ie: spare) and pronunciation.

[Peter C.]

I'm familiar with the word "spare", that's why I suggested that it was a variation of the word "spar" both in spelling (ie: spare) and pronunciation.

No.

Jock Scot and Pleater described the meaning perfectly and as Paulhenry said it from spare as in spare tyre. Going spare sort of means going beside oneself with rage.

Peter

[Ruanaidh]

The New Shorter OED under spare Phrases:go spare collq. (a) become infuriated or distraught; (b) not required or wanted by others.