What it means
To go spare is to completely lose your rag, usually over something small that’s been the last straw. You’re not just annoyed, you’re at full blast, dishing out a proper telling-off and flapping your hands like you’re directing traffic. Classic household phrase when the kettle’s boiled over, literally or emotionally.
Usage examples
"Dad went spare when he clocked I'd fixed the telly using the remote and a butter knife. Now he's marching about, muttering, like it's EastEnders."
"Mum went spare when she saw the muddy footprints all the way up the new stair carpet."
"He'll go spare if he finds out you borrowed the car without asking, best fill the tank first."
Other ways to say it
Editors of this term
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