What does scratch mean?
Scratch has several connected but distinct meanings, all involving a surface, mark, or small movement. As a verb, it can mean rubbing or marking something with nails, claws, or a pointed object, as in “The cat scratched the door.” It can also mean cancelling or removing a name or entry by drawing lines through it, or writing something roughly. In informal contexts, to scratch can mean withdrawing from an event or competition. As a noun, a scratch is a thin mark or opening, an itchy spot, a small prize or position, or a brief informal message. The expressions “start from scratch” and “up to scratch” use the word in figurative senses of beginning with nothing and meeting a required standard. Scratch is useful because it shifts easily between literal physical actions, writing, competition, and informal social situations.
To rub or make marks on a surface with the fingernails, claws, or a pointed object.
"The puppy scratched at the carpet."
The verb is transitive or intransitive and is common in both formal and informal English.
To cancel, remove, or withdraw from something, especially by crossing out an entry or withdrawing from an event.
"She scratched her name from the list and withdrew from the race."
The withdrawal sense is especially common in sports and competition contexts.
A thin mark or small opening made by scraping or rubbing a surface.
"There was a small scratch on the phone case."
A small prize, position, or chance in a competition, especially for a substitute or reserve participant.
"He earned a scratch on the team and might play next week."
The plural is used for multiple marks, itchy places, small prizes, or brief informal messages.
"The old table was covered with scratches and stains."
The phrase “start from scratch” comes from writing on a surface with little or no preparation—and still means beginning again with nothing to build on.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scratch come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old English, where related forms referred to scraping or making a scraping sound. Its precise ultimate origin is uncertain, and the verb may have been influenced by imitative scraping noises. Modern senses developed from the basic idea of making marks or rubbing a surface with something pointed or rough.
Related word forms
How scratch is actually used
The word is common in both formal and informal English. “Scratch” in the sense of withdrawing from an event is especially common in British and American sports usage. “Start from scratch” and “up to scratch” are idiomatic and often informal.
Easily confused with scratch
Scratching typically involves making repeated marks with claws, nails, or a pointed object, whereas scraping means dragging a sharp or rough edge across a surface.