What does scrabble mean?
Scrabble is a popular board game in which players create words from letter tiles to score points. The game requires strategic thinking and vocabulary skills. As a verb, scrabble means to move hastily or scramble, often in a frantic or urgent manner. This sense is less commonly used than the noun form. The game of scrabble has become a cultural phenomenon, with tournaments and competitions held worldwide. It is often played in social settings, such as family gatherings or game nights, and is suitable for players of all ages. The game's enduring popularity lies in its unique blend of mental challenge and social interaction.
A game in which players create words from letter tiles.
"She spent the evening playing scrabble with her friends."
To move hastily or scramble.
"The kids scrabble to get the last piece of cake."
The verb form is less common and mostly used in informal contexts.
The plural form is rarely used, mostly in informal contexts or to refer to multiple games or instances of scrambling.
"The company offers scrabbles and other word games as team-building activities."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of scrabble
The word 'scrabble' originated in the mid-20th century, likely derived from the word 'scramble', which means to move hastily or urgently. The game of scrabble was invented by Alfred Mosher Butts in 1938, who combined elements of anagram games and crossword puzzles to create a new game. The name 'scrabble' may also be related to the words 'scrap' and 'scratch', which convey a sense of hasty or urgent movement.
How scrabble is actually used
The verb form is less common and mostly used in informal contexts.