scratching

/ˈskɹætʃɪŋ/

verb

  1. 1

    To rub a surface with a sharp object, especially by a living creature to remove itching with nails, claws, etc.

    Could you please scratch my back?
  2. 2

    To rub the skin with rough material causing a sensation of irritation; to cause itching.

    I don't like that new scarf because it scratches my neck.
  3. 3

    To mark a surface with a sharp object, thereby leaving a scratch (noun).

    A real diamond can easily scratch a pane of glass.
  4. 4

    To cross out, strike out, strike through some text on a page.

  5. 5

    To produce a distinctive sound on a turntable by moving a vinyl record back and forth while manipulating the crossfader (see also scratching).

  6. 6

    To commit a foul in pool, as where the cue ball is put into a pocket or jumps off the table.

    Embarrassingly, he scratched on the break, popping the cue completely off the table.
  7. 7

    To score, not by skillful play but by some fortunate chance of the game.

  8. 8

    To write or draw hastily or awkwardly; scrawl.

  9. 9

    To dig or excavate with the claws.

    Some animals scratch holes, in which they burrow.
  10. 10

    To dig or scrape (a person's skin) with claws or fingernails in self-defense or with the intention to injure.

    The cat scratched the little girl.

Synonyms

noun

  1. 1

    The act or sound of something being scratched.

    We heard further scratchings at the door as the dog whined to be let in.
  2. 2

    A pork scratching.

  3. 3

    Record scratching, a technique of starting and stopping a vinyl record from playing to produce music in hip hop.

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