Scramble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scramble
[ˈskræmbəl ]
Definition
word game
Mix up the letters of (a word, name, or phrase) to produce a new word or phrase, typically by exchanging letters or by using the letters to form an anagram.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scramble |
When you need to describe an action of moving quickly or clumsily to achieve something, or mixing something in a chaotic way. Often used for describing physical movements or making food like scrambled eggs.
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| mix-up |
Generally used to describe a situation where there is confusion or a mistake due to a misunderstanding or incorrect arrangement. It often has a negative connotation.
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| jumble |
Used when referring to a collection of items thrown together in a disorganized manner. It can also be used for words or letters mixed up without order.
|
| shuffle |
Usually used to describe moving things around to change their order, often randomly. Commonly used with cards or steps.
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Examples of usage
- Let's play a game where we scramble the letters of different words and try to guess the original word.
- She quickly scrambled the letters on the board to form a new word.
- The goal is to unscramble the jumbled letters and figure out the word.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Food
- Scrambled eggs are a popular breakfast dish made by beating eggs and cooking them over low heat.
- The technique of scrambling can be used with other ingredients, like vegetables or even cheese, creating a versatile meal.
- In cooking, timing is key! Scrambling eggs too long can result in rubbery texture, showcasing the importance of balance.
Sports
- In football, a quarterback may 'scramble' to avoid being tackled, demonstrating agility and quick thinking.
- The term is used in various sports contexts to indicate players making rapid, improvisational movements.
- Scrambling in sports illustrates how quick decisions can lead to success in fast-paced environments.
Games
- In word games, 'scramble' is often used to describe the action of mixing up letters to form new words.
- Popular puzzles often involve scrambling letters, making it an engaging challenge for players.
- Scrambling adds a layer of complexity to games, encouraging creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
Psychology
- Scrambling thoughts or feelings can happen when a person is stressed, indicating a need for clarity.
- The term can also describe chaotic situations, reflecting the human experience of managing overwhelm.
- Understanding the concept of scrambling in psychology helps individuals to navigate complex emotions more effectively.
Origin of 'scramble'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'escrambler', meaning to climb or scramble, dating back to the 14th century.
- Originally, it described a physical struggle or fight, evolving over time to include mixing and hurrying.
- It's related to the word 'scram', which means to leave quickly, showing similar urgency.
The word 'scramble' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the obsolete Dutch word 'schrampen' meaning 'be disarranged'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the act of mixing up letters or elements to create a new combination. The use of 'scramble' in the context of word games became popular in the 20th century.
See also: scrambled, scrambling, unscramble, unscrambling.