scrape
14 synonyms for scrape, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To drag something rough or sharp across a surface, often removing a layer or leaving a mark.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To drag something rough or sharp across a surface, often removing a layer or leaving a mark.
“She scraped the ice off the windshield.”
2. noun
A shallow injury or mark caused by rubbing against a rough surface.
“He came away from the fall with just a scrape on his elbow.”
How to use scrape
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old Norse and Old English words both meaning \"to scrape or scratch,\" ultimately from an ancient root meaning \"to engrave.\"
Full origin of scrape →