Scribbles: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to random, hasty, or illegible writing or drawing, usually by children or when someone is in a hurry.

• The child covered the walls with colorful scribbles
• His notes on the margin of the book were just messy scribbles

Refers to simple, spontaneous drawings made absentmindedly, often while thinking or being preoccupied. Commonly seen in the margins of notebooks during meetings or lectures.

• She filled her notebook with little doodles while daydreaming in class
• His doodles of flowers were scattered throughout his diary

Refers to quick, rough drawings done to capture the basic elements or initial ideas of a subject. Commonly used by artists to plan their work or by designers in brainstorming sessions.

• The artist made several sketches before beginning the painting
• Her sketches of the city's skyline were captivating

Indicates more intentional and often more detailed or artistic renderings. Drawings can be done for various purposes, including art, planning, or technical illustrations.

• The gallery exhibited several impressive drawings by local artists
• He showed me his detailed drawings of the new building

Used when referring to careless, messy or illegible writing, often by children or when someone is in a hurry.

• The child's notebook was full of colorful scribbles
• Trying to catch the important points, he just made some quick scribbles in his notepad

Refers to writing that is quickly and carelessly written, often hard to read. It has a negative connotation.

• He scrawled his name on the sheet before rushing out the door
• The letter was scrawled hastily, making it difficult to decipher the message

Commonly used when quickly writing down notes or information, usually in an organized manner.

• She always carries a notebook to jot down her ideas
• During the meeting, he jotted down the main topics discussed

Used when someone is writing something fast, indicating speed but not necessarily the quality of writing.

• As the thoughts came to her mind, she began to pen quickly
• The reporter had to pen quickly to meet the deadline for the article