What does scurrying mean?
Scurrying means moving quickly with short, hurried steps, usually in a way that suggests nervousness, excitement, or panic. It is especially vivid for small people or animals moving suddenly and energetically, as in the phrase “the mice scurried away.” The word can also describe someone moving urgently through a place or leaving quickly, often with a slightly comic or dramatic tone. Because it combines physical speed with nervous energy, “scurrying” conveys more than simply “walking quickly” and is generally more informal and descriptive than neutral terms such as “hurrying.” It is useful when the manner of movement matters as much as the movement itself.
To move quickly with short, hurried steps, often in a nervous or excited manner.
"The rabbit scurried into its burrow."
Often used for people or animals and commonly suggesting nervousness, excitement, or alarm.
A hurried movement or state of hurried activity.
"There was a sudden scurry when the officials entered the room."
Usually countable in expressions such as “a scurry” or “in a scurry.”
Used for separate instances of hurried movement or activity.
"The children were in a flurry of scurries across the field."
A scurrying creature is usually small, quick, and in a hurry—but the word captures the nervous energy of the movement more than speed alone.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scurrying come from?
“Scurry” appeared in English during the late 17th century, with the verb initially associated with quick, hurried movement. The word's ultimate origin is uncertain, although it developed into the modern form through changes in spelling and pronunciation. Its present-participle form, “scurrying,” has become especially common in descriptions of quick, nervous movement.
Related word forms
How scurrying is actually used
The word is commonly used for people and animals and often carries a connotation of nervousness, excitement, or mild panic. It is informal and vivid rather than formal.
Easily confused with scurrying
“Scurrying” is the present-participle form of “scurry,” while “scurry” is the base verb or the noun for a hurried movement.