In addition to what Marlana said about these words being the same as nouns, as actions or verbs they're a little different. I can backup my homework assignment, so I can spare myself of a headache later.
Backup as a verb is like, copying something to keep it safe.
Spare as a verb is like, saving something or someone. I can spare you from confusion by answering your question. I can also spare a cat crossing the street by stopping my car to not hit it.