scatter
SKA-tuh
Scatter (verb) means to cause to separate and move in different directions. Example: “The pigeons scattered when the dog ran into the square.”
verb
1
To cause to separate and move in different directions.
"The pigeons scattered when the dog ran into the square."
"Papers scattered across the floor when the wind blew through the window."
2
To spread something loosely over an area.
"She scattered seeds across the flower bed."
How to use scatter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo spread out in different directions, or to sprinkle something loosely.
Common pairings
scatter seeds
crowd scattered
scattered debris
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Word forms
- Plural
- scatters
- Third person singular
- scatters
- Past tense
- scattered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The pigeons _____ when the dog ran into the square.
Etymology
From Middle English scateren, likely a variant of "shatter," and possibly ultimately imitative in origin.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for scatter
See all rhymes for scatter →Frequently asked questions
What does “scatter” mean?
The word “scatter” means to cause to separate and move in different directions. In plain terms, to spread out in different directions, or to sprinkle something loosely.
How do you pronounce “scatter”?
“Scatter” is pronounced SKA-tuh (/ˈskætɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “scatter” in a sentence?
Here is “scatter” used in a sentence: “The pigeons scattered when the dog ran into the square.”
What part of speech is “scatter”?
“Scatter” is a verb.
Where does the word “scatter” come from?
The word “scatter” comes from Middle English. From Middle English scateren, likely a variant of "shatter," and possibly ultimately imitative in origin.
Is “scatter” a common word?
“Scatter” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “scatter” have?
“Scatter” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to cause to separate and move in different directions.
