Scribbled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scribbled

[ˈskrɪbəld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

writing quickly

To scribble means to write or draw something quickly and carelessly, often making it difficult to read or understand.

Synonyms

dash off, jot down, scrawl.

Examples of usage

  • He scribbled a note to remind himself of the meeting.
  • She scribbled down her thoughts in her journal.
Context #2 | Verb

drawing roughly

To scribble can also mean to draw something quickly and without much detail or precision.

Synonyms

doodle, draw hastily, sketch.

Examples of usage

  • The child scribbled all over the paper with crayons.
  • She scribbled a quick sketch in her notebook.
Context #3 | Noun

quick writing or drawing

As a noun, scribble refers to a piece of writing or drawing that is done quickly and without much care or detail.

Synonyms

doodle, hastily written note, scrawl.

Examples of usage

  • His notebook was full of scribbles and doodles.
  • The teacher couldn't read the student's scribble on the assignment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Creativity

  • Many famous artists, including Picasso, used scribbling as a technique to brainstorm ideas quickly.
  • Scribbles are often considered an important part of early childhood development, aiding motor skills and creativity.
  • Some artists have turned the concept of scribbling into exhibition-worthy art, showing that mess can be beautiful!

Psychology

  • Scribbling can serve as a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to release emotions without the need for words.
  • Some studies suggest that people who doodle or scribble while listening can enhance their concentration and memory retention.
  • Children's scribbles can reflect their cognitive development stages, hinting at their understanding of shapes and symbols.

Education

  • In classrooms, experts encourage children to scribble as a fundamental part of learning before they develop proper writing skills.
  • Teachers often use 'scribble notes' to help students jot down ideas quickly during brainstorming sessions.
  • Scribbled notes are sometimes more effective than typed ones, as the act of writing by hand engages different parts of the brain.

Communication

  • Scribbled messages can convey urgency, as they’re often associated with writing done in a hurry.
  • In digital communication, 'scribbling' can be likened to the informal tone found in quick text messages and social media posts.
  • The term 'scribble' is also used to describe handwriting that is difficult to read, which can convey a light-hearted or informal vibe.

Origin of 'scribbled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'scribere,' which means 'to write'
  • It began to be used in English around the late 14th century, reflecting a playful or hasty way of writing.
  • Scribbling often emphasizes the informal or spontaneous expression in writing.

The word 'scribble' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Middle English word 'scriblen', which meant 'write or draw carelessly'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both writing and drawing quickly and without much attention to detail. Scribbling is often associated with creativity, spontaneity, and a sense of playfulness in expressing ideas on paper.


See also: scribbling.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,727, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.