noun Uncommon

scratches

Scratches (noun) means a skin condition affecting the lower legs of horses, causing irritation and scabbing (also called pastern dermatitis). Example: “The vet treated the horse's scratches with an antifungal ointment.”

noun

A skin condition affecting the lower legs of horses, causing irritation and scabbing (also called pastern dermatitis).

"The vet treated the horse's scratches with an antifungal ointment."

How to use scratches

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA veterinary term for an irritating skin condition on a horse's lower legs; otherwise just the plural of scratch.

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The vet treated the horse's _____ with an antifungal ointment.

Etymology

Named for the scratching behaviour the irritation causes in affected animals.

Rhymes for scratches

watches

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Frequently asked questions

What does “scratches” mean?

The word “scratches” means a skin condition affecting the lower legs of horses, causing irritation and scabbing (also called pastern dermatitis). In plain terms, a veterinary term for an irritating skin condition on a horse's lower legs; otherwise just the plural of scratch.

How do you use “scratches” in a sentence?

Here is “scratches” used in a sentence: “The vet treated the horse's scratches with an antifungal ointment.”

What part of speech is “scratches”?

“Scratches” is a noun.

Is “scratches” a common word?

“Scratches” is an uncommon word in modern English.