Definition of "scratch" in Englisch

verb

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

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

4. (of a surface) to get such scratches

   • This platter scratches easily.

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

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

7. (billiards) 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.

8. (billiards, dated, US) To score, not by skillful play but by some fortunate chance of the game.

9. To write or draw hastily or awkwardly; scrawl.

10. (ambitransitive) To dig or excavate with the claws.

    • Some animals scratch holes, in which they burrow.

11. 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.

12. (swimming, athletics) To announce one's non-participation in a race or sports event part of a larger sports meeting that one was previously signed up for, usually in lieu of another event at the same meeting.

noun

1. A disruption, mark or shallow cut on a surface made by scratching.

   • I can’t believe there is a scratch in the paint already.
   • Her skin was covered with tiny scratches.

2. An act of scratching the skin to alleviate an itch or irritation.

   • The dog sat up and had a good scratch.

3. A starting line (originally and simply, a line scratched in the ground), as in boxing.

4. A technical error of touching or surpassing the starting mark prior to the official start signal in the sporting events of long jump, discus, hammer throw, shot put, and similar. Originally the starting mark was a scratch on the ground but is now a board or precisely indicated mark.