British english to American english translation request

[ardchoille]

I'm not on that side of the pond, however:

spare (spâr)
v. spared, spar·ing, spares
v.tr.
1. To refrain from treating harshly; treat mercifully or leniently.
2. To refrain from harming or destroying.
3. To save or relieve from experiencing or doing (something): spared herself the trouble of going.
4. To hold back from; withhold or avoid: spared no expense for the celebration.
5. To use with restraint: Don't spare the mustard.
6. To give or grant out of one's resources; afford: Can you spare ten minutes?

From http://www.thefreedictionary.com/going+spare

Is this correct?

[Casey_in_Carolina]

Is this correct?

I don't believe so. As I inferred, I think it's a usage peculiar to the British Isles. The speaker seems to be saying that the woman is in an excessive state of worry, and that then, "she keeps going spare.." whatever that means. It almost seems like he's referring to an 'episode' of some sort. Perhaps some sort of fit or something. I just don't know.....


Casey