scramble
SKRAMBL
Scramble (verb) means to move quickly and awkwardly, often using hands and feet, especially over rough ground. Example: “They scrambled up the rocky slope to reach the summit.”
verb
1
To move quickly and awkwardly, often using hands and feet, especially over rough ground.
"They scrambled up the rocky slope to reach the summit."
"He scrambled to catch the last train."
2
To mix eggs and cook them while stirring so they set in soft curds.
"She scrambled two eggs for breakfast."
3
To rush aircraft or personnel into action quickly in response to an emergency.
"Fighter jets were scrambled after the radar contact."
noun
1
A disorderly rush or struggle, especially to get or reach something.
"There was a scramble for seats when the doors opened."
How to use scramble
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo move or act hurriedly and awkwardly, to cook eggs by stirring them, or a chaotic rush.
Common pairings
scramble up
scramble for something
scrambled eggs
scramble jets
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Word forms
- Plural
- scrambles
- Third person singular
- scrambles
- Past tense
- scrambled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They _____ up the rocky slope to reach the summit.
Etymology
Origin uncertain, though it likely comes from a dialect word meaning \"to rake or scrape together with the hands,\" possibly related to scrabble.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for scramble
See all rhymes for scramble →Frequently asked questions
What does “scramble” mean?
The word “scramble” means to move quickly and awkwardly, often using hands and feet, especially over rough ground. In plain terms, to move or act hurriedly and awkwardly, to cook eggs by stirring them, or a chaotic rush.
How do you pronounce “scramble”?
“Scramble” is pronounced SKRAMBL (/ˈskɹæmbl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “scramble” in a sentence?
Here is “scramble” used in a sentence: “They scrambled up the rocky slope to reach the summit.”
What part of speech is “scramble”?
Depending on how it is used, “scramble” can be a verb and a noun.
Is “scramble” a common word?
“Scramble” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “scramble” have?
“Scramble” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move quickly and awkwardly, often using hands and feet, especially over rough ground.
