Scrunch: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
scrunch
[ skrสnสง ]
physical action
To scrunch is to crush or squeeze something into a tight ball or compact shape, often resulting in a wrinkled or creased form. This action is commonly associated with handling paper, fabric, or other malleable materials. Scrunching can also imply making something smaller or more manageable by compressing it. It is often used in the context of packing items or preparing materials for storage.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She scrunched the paper into a ball.
- He scrunched the fabric to fit it into the bag.
- The child scrunched the leaves in her hands.
sound or action
Scrunch can refer to the sound made when something is crushed, compressed, or wrinkled. This noise is often associated with materials like paper, plastic, or leaves, producing a distinctive crunching or crumpling sound. In some contexts, it can refer to the action of scrunching itself, symbolizing a playful or careless handling of objects.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The scrunch of the paper echoed in the quiet room.
- I love the scrunch of leaves underfoot in autumn.
- The scrunch of the plastic wrapper was annoying.
Etymology
The word 'scrunch' originated in the early 20th century, likely derived from a combination of the sound it makes and the action it describes. It is thought to be an onomatopoeic term, mimicking the noise produced when materials are crumpled or compressed. The verb form is commonly used in British and American English, reflecting a casual approach to handling materials. Over time, 'scrunch' has expanded in usage, adapting to various contexts such as fashion (describing garments that are gathered or crumpled) and everyday actions (like packing lunches or tidying up clutter). Its playful connotation has made the word popular in informal language, particularly among children and in creative contexts.