Marked by simplicity and often strict self-discipline or self-denial.
Example:
His spartan life bore no relation to the lush language of his poetry.
In ancient times, the Greek city of Sparta had a reputation for enforcing a highly disciplined, severe way of life among its citizens so as to keep them ready for war at any time. The city required physical training for men and women and maintained a common dining hall and communal child care, but provided few physical comforts. The term spartan today may sometimes suggest communal life (for example, in the army) but always signifies strictness and frugality.