Scrawly: meaning, definitions and examples

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scrawly

 

[ ˈskrɔːli ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

writing style

Scrawly refers to a style of writing or drawing that is messy, hasty, or carelessly formed. It is often associated with kids' handwriting or informal notes where the letters may not be perfectly shaped or aligned. This style can convey a sense of urgency or spontaneity in communication. Additionally, scrawly may be used to describe anything that has a similar appearance to messy handwriting, such as doodles or casual sketches.

Synonyms

disheveled, messy, scribbled, untidy.

Examples of usage

  • She wrote a scrawly note on a napkin.
  • His scrawly handwriting made it hard to read.
  • The child's scrawly drawings covered the fridge.
  • The scrawly font made the poster look informal.

Translations

Translations of the word "scrawly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escravizado

🇮🇳 स्क्रॉली

🇩🇪 kritzelig

🇮🇩 tergores

🇺🇦 скрипучий

🇵🇱 bazgroły

🇯🇵 落書きの

🇫🇷 gribouillé

🇪🇸 garabateado

🇹🇷 karalamak

🇰🇷 낙서의

🇸🇦 خربشة

🇨🇿 škrábaný

🇸🇰 čmáraný

🇨🇳 乱写的

🇸🇮 skiciran

🇮🇸 skaflótt

🇰🇿 жазылған

🇬🇪 გამოტოვებული

🇦🇿 çizilmiş

🇲🇽 rayado

Etymology

The term 'scrawly' is derived from the verb 'scrawl,' which originates from the late Middle English word 'scrallen,' a variant of the Old English 'scrēolan,' meaning to 'scratch' or 'scribble.' The prefix 's-' conveys the action of doing something, while the root 'crawl' implies a lack of control or neatness, suggesting a careless or hasty action. Over time, 'scrawl' evolved to refer specifically to messy or hurried handwriting and has since given rise to the adjective 'scrawly.' Language has a dynamic nature, with words shifting in meaning based on cultural context, and 'scrawly' reflects the playful and informal aspects of personal expression in written form. Today, it is commonly used to describe casual, informal writing styles that prioritize speed or spontaneity over neatness.