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verb B1 Intermediate Common

scratch

skrach

Scratch (verb) means to rub or drag nails, claws, or a sharp point across a surface, especially to relieve an itch or leave a mark. Example: “The cat scratched at the door to be let out.”

verb
1
To rub or drag nails, claws, or a sharp point across a surface, especially to relieve an itch or leave a mark.
"The cat scratched at the door to be let out."
"He scratched his initials into the desk."
2
To withdraw from a race or competition one had previously entered.
"The favorite was scratched from the race the night before."
noun
1
A mark, cut, or sound produced by scratching.
"There's a deep scratch on the car door."
2
Informal term for money, especially cash.
"He didn't have enough scratch to cover the bill."

How to Use Scratch

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo drag something sharp across a surface (or relieve an itch this way), a resulting mark, or to pull out of a competition.

Common mistake

The phrase \"from scratch\" means starting with nothing prepared in advance, not literally about scratching.

Common pairings
scratch an itch start from scratch scratch the surface scratch card

Word Forms

scratched past tense, scratches plural, scratches singular

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Test yourself on “scratch” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The cat _____ at the door to be let out.

Etymology

From Middle English scracchen, probably a blend of two older English words that both meant \"to scratch.\"

Origin: Middle English

Related Words

Rhymes for scratch

See all rhymes for scratch →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “scratch” mean?

The word “scratch” means to rub or drag nails, claws, or a sharp point across a surface, especially to relieve an itch or leave a mark. In plain terms, to drag something sharp across a surface (or relieve an itch this way), a resulting mark, or to pull out of a competition.

How do you pronounce “scratch”?

“Scratch” is pronounced skrach (/skɹæt͡ʃ/ in IPA).

How do you use “scratch” in a sentence?

Here is “scratch” used in a sentence: “The cat scratched at the door to be let out.”

What part of speech is “scratch”?

Depending on how it is used, “scratch” can be a verb and a noun.

Where does the word “scratch” come from?

The word “scratch” comes from Middle English. From Middle English scracchen, probably a blend of two older English words that both meant \"to scratch.\".

Is “scratch” a common word?

“Scratch” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

How many meanings does “scratch” have?

“Scratch” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to rub or drag nails, claws, or a sharp point across a surface, especially to relieve an itch or leave a mark.

What is the difference between "scratch" and "scrape"?

To "scratch" is to drag nails, claws, or a sharp point across a surface, leaving a thin mark or relieving an itch. To "scrape" usually means to drag a broader edge along a surface, removing material or covering a wider area.

What is the difference between "scratch" and "itch"?

An itch is the uncomfortable sensation on the skin that makes you want to rub it. To "scratch" is the action of rubbing or dragging your nails across that spot to relieve the itch.

Can "scratch" be both a verb and a noun?

Yes. As a verb, "scratch" means to rub or drag nails or a sharp point across a surface. As a noun, it names the mark, cut, or sound that this action produces, such as a scratch on the paint.

What is the difference between a "scratch" and a "scuff"?

A "scratch" is a thin line or cut made by a sharp point, such as a fingernail or key. A "scuff" is a rougher, duller mark left by rubbing or scraping a surface, often on shoes or floors.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial