How Alaska is populated (8)

I believe the answer is:

sparsely

(Other definitions for sparsely that I've seen before include "Meagrely, scantily" , "Meagerly, scantily" , "in meagre quantities" , "Thinly (scattered)" , "sporadic distribution" .)

I've seen this clue in the King Feature Syndicate.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.