Scratching: meaning, definitions and examples
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scratching
[ ˈskrætʃɪŋ ]
action, sound
Scratching refers to the act of scraping or digging into a surface with something sharp or rough. It can also denote making a harsh, scraping noise, often associated with skin or a surface being lightly torn.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She was scratching her arm to relieve the itch.
- The cat was scratching at the door.
- He was scratching his head in confusion.
- I heard scratching noises coming from the attic.
action, sound
Scratching, as a noun, refers to the act or noise produced when something sharp makes contact with a surface. This action can be associated with relief from itching or can be an irritating sound.
Synonyms
friction, grating, rubbing, scrape.
Examples of usage
- The scratching of nails on a chalkboard is unpleasant.
- He felt a scratch on his arm after playing outside.
- The scratching created a rhythm that matched the music.
- The dog continued its scratching at the ground.
Etymology
The word 'scratch' originates from the Middle English term 'scracchen', which means to scrape or to scratch with the claws or nails. This term has roots in Old Norse 'skrakkr', which refers to a scraping or scratching sound, and can also be linked to various Germanic languages where similar forms existed, indicating an act of scraping or tearing. Over time, the word has developed to encompass not just the physical act of scratching but also the various contexts in which it can be used, such as scratching a surface or skin, producing sounds, or indicating confusion, such as 'scratching one's head'. The evolution of the term reflects both a physical and metaphorical breadth that encompasses different uses in contemporary English.