Synonyms for

Scratch

Verb / skrætʃ / Another word for scratch — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To mark or damage a surface by scraping or rubbing it with something sharp or rough.

Synonyms & similar words

pelf fret scrub lucre start scar dent slit lettuce excise scrawl clams chafe engrave scratchline prick cabbage dinero mark fray scraping comeup sugar incision moolah scrape chafe graze cut nick mark score indent etch engrave carve incise gouge dig claw tear lacerate mutilate wound injure

Synonyms by register

Formal

erase obliterate annul rescind

Informal

scuff scrape etch gouge

Literary

efface raze

Antonyms

build create mend repair construct originate establish

Common collocations

  • scratch the surface
  • scratch an itch
  • start from scratch
  • scratch out a living
  • scratch a record
  • scratch the paint
  • scratch the head

Word family

noun scratch
verb scratch
adjective scratchy

Usage note

The informal sense of 'scratch' often refers to making a mark or a shallow cut. The phrase 'start from scratch' means to begin something from the very beginning.

Example sentences

  1. The cat scratched the sofa.
  2. I need to scratch my itch.
  3. Don't scratch the itch or it will get worse.
  4. He used a stick to scratch his name in the dirt.
  5. The tree branch scraped and scratched my leg.

Quotes

  • I'm not scratching for it, somebody else can if they want it. - Robert Johnson
  • I am just a guitar player, and my job is to go out there and play and scratch and kick and scream. - Angus Young
  • Scratch a lover, and find a foe. - Dorothy Parker

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