scratch
(skrăch)
[Middle English scracchen, probably blend of scratten, to scratch, and cracchen, to scratch (possibly from Middle Dutch cratsen).]
verb: scratched, scratch·ing, scratch·es.
transitive verb
- To make a thin shallow cut or mark on (a surface) with a sharp instrument.
- To use the nails or claws to dig or scrape at.
- To rub or scrape (the skin) to relieve itching.
- To scrape or strike on an abrasive surface.
- To write or draw (something) by scraping a surface: scratched their initials on a rock.
- To write or draw hurriedly: scratched off a thank-you note.
- To strike out or cancel (a word, for example) by or as if by drawing lines through.
- Slang To cancel (a project or program, for example).
- To withdraw (an entry) from a contest.
intransitive verb
- To use the nails or claws to dig, scrape, or wound.
- To rub or scrape the skin to relieve itching.
- To make a harsh scraping sound.
- To gather funds or produce a living with difficulty.
- To withdraw from a contest.
- Games To make a shot in billiards that results in a penalty, as when the cue ball falls into a pocket or jumps the cushion.
noun
- A mark resembling a line that is produced by scratching.
- A slight wound.
- A hasty scribble.
- A sound made by scratching.
- Sports The starting line for a race.
- A contestant who has been withdrawn from a competition.
- Games
- The act of scratching in billiards.
- A fluke or chance shot in billiards.
- Poultry feed.
- Slang Money.
adjective
- Done haphazardly or by chance.
- Assembled hastily or at random.
- Sports Having no golf handicap.
idioms
- from scratch
- From the very beginning.
- scratch the surface
- To investigate or treat something superficially.
- up to scratch
- Meeting the requirements. In fit condition.
derivatives
- scratch́er
- noun