Scratch

Definition

Scratch primarily refers to a mark or wound on the skin surface caused by superficial abrasion, or the action of causing such a mark. It can also refer to starting from the very beginning in a certain scenario, such as creating something from scratch.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skrætʃ/
• Respelling: SKRATCH (with "SKRATCH" as in "batch")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skrætʃ/
• Respelling: SKRATCH (similar to American English, with "SKRATCH" as in "batch")

In both dialects, "scratch" has a straightforward pronunciation, featuring a short "a" sound as in "cat" and ending with the "ch" sound as in "church." The respelling here aims to clearly reflect this pronunciation.

Etymology

The term "scratch" comes from the Middle English word "scracchen" which emerged around the early 15th century. The Middle English word itself has Old French and Germanic origins, from "escrater" and "kratsen" respectively.

Derivatives

• Scratcher
• Scratchy
• Scratchable
• Scratchless
• Scratchiness

Synonyms

• Scrape
• Abrasion
• Graze

Antonyms

• Heal
• Smooth
• Protect

Usage

"Scratch" is used in various contexts to describe a superficial wound, a slight grazing or cutting of the skin, or beginning something from the base level without any prepared or pre-existing elements.

Related Terms

• Scrape
• Gouge
• Abrasion
• Graze

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Superficial Wound: A mark or wound made by scratching.‍
• Example: She got a scratch on her arm while hiking through the brambly trail.

• Beginning Point: Starting from nothing or beginning.‍
• Example: He built his business from scratch without any external investment.

Verb

• Action of Causing a Superficial Wound: Making a slight or superficial wound in the skin with a sharp or pointed thing.‍
• Example: Be careful not to scratch your skin while pruning the roses.

• Starting Anew: Beginning something anew without any prior basis.‍
• Example: After the failure of the initial design, the team decided to scratch and come up with a new concept.