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Scurried Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scurried

[ˈskərēd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

quick movement

To scurry means to move briskly and with short, hurried steps. This term is often used to describe the rapid movements of small animals or people when they are in a hurry or feeling anxious. Scurrying conveys a sense of urgency and sometimes a hint of panic. It is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. The imagery of scurrying can often be associated with small, quick creatures, like mice or insects.

Synonyms

dash, hurry, race, run, scuttle.

Examples of usage

  • The mouse scurried across the floor.
  • Children scurried to the playground after school.
  • Ants scurried around the picnic area.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Wildlife Behavior

  • Many small animals, like rodents and insects, exhibit scurrying behavior to evade predators, showcasing survival instincts.
  • Various species of birds also scurry on the ground to find food, especially in urban areas where food sources are abundant.
  • The speed of scurrying helps many creatures avoid becoming prey while foraging for sustenance.

Literature and Arts

  • In children's stories, characters often scurry when facing danger, highlighting the theme of urgency.
  • The term is frequently used in poems and fables to create vivid imagery of bustling activity in nature.
  • Illustrations of scurrying animals often evoke feelings of playfulness or anxiety, adding emotional depth to art.

Cultural References

  • Various cartoons depict characters scurrying when caught in tricky situations, creating humor and relatability.
  • In movies, scurried movements are often paired with music to emphasize chaos or excitement, enhancing the viewer's experience.
  • Scurrying is a common descriptor in video games, particularly in fast-paced scenes where characters dodge enemies.

Origin of 'scurried'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scurried' comes from the Middle English term 'scurren', which means to move quickly.
  • It has ties to the Old French word 'escurrir', reflecting actions of darting or rushing.
  • The verb form connects to the concept of swift movement, similar to the action of animals described in literature.

The word 'scurried' is derived from the verb 'scurry,' which has its origins in the late 16th century. It is thought to come from a combination of the Middle English 'scurren,' which means to run or to move quickly, along with influences from the Old Norse word 'skurr,' meaning to move swiftly. The term has evolved over time to capture the essence of quick and often frantic movement. As it gained popularity, 'scurry' became associated with small animals, particularly those that scuttle about in search of food or safety. The vivid imagery of this word is often employed in literature to depict a scene filled with activity or anxiety, thus enhancing its lasting impact in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,216, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.