What does scurry mean?
Scurry means to move with unusual speed and lightness, often in short, quick steps. It frequently conveys alarm, nervousness, or a desire to escape: a rabbit can scurry into a burrow, or a person can scurry away from an unexpected question. The verb may also describe rapid movement without implying fear, although hurried or furtive associations remain common. As a noun, a scurry is a brief, confused rush, as when a crowd suddenly moves toward a doorway or several small animals scatter together. The word has a somewhat literary sound and may suggest movement that is nimble rather than powerful, distinguishing it from the broader hurry or rush. In dialogue and narrative, scurry is especially effective because it captures both pace and emotional atmosphere: the subject is moving quickly, but usually not with dignity or composure.
To move quickly or lightly, especially in short, hurried steps; to flee or retreat hastily.
"The children scurred down the path when the bell rang."
Often implies fear, surprise, or furtiveness, though it can also describe rapid movement in a neutral context.
A hurried or alarmed movement, especially a collective rush by people or animals.
"There was a scurry for the tickets as soon as the box office opened."
The noun is relatively uncommon and sounds more literary than the everyday alternatives rush or scramble.
The regular plural is rarely needed because the noun usually describes a single brief or collective episode of hurried movement.
"Brief scurries broke out whenever the photographer entered the room."
First attested in the late 16th century, scurry still evokes a hurried dash made almost on tiptoe.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scurry come from?
The English word scurry is attested from the late 16th century. Its precise origin is uncertain, although it has been associated with Middle English scurrie and Old French scorrer, words connected with hastening, fleeing, or running away.
Related word forms
How scurry is actually used
The verb is somewhat literary or old-fashioned compared with hurry. It often suggests a quick, light, slightly furtive movement; the noun can describe either one person's hurried movement or a collective rush.