Definition of "scantling" in English

noun

1. (chiefly in the plural) The set size or dimension of a piece of timber, stone etc., or materials used to build ships or aircraft.

2. (archaic) A small portion, a scant amount.

   • For one may have particular knowledge of the nature of one river, and experience of the qualitie of one fountaine, that in other things knowes no more than another man: who neverthelesse to publish this little scantling, will undertake to write all of the Physickes.

3. A small, upright beam of timber used in construction, especially less than five inches square.

4. (uncountable) Timber in the form of small beams and pieces.

5. (obsolete) A rough draught; a crude sketch or outline.

6. (obsolete) A frame for casks to lie upon; a trestle.

adjective

1. Not plentiful; small; scanty.