What does scuttling mean?
“Scuttling” describes moving quickly and lightly, usually with short, hurried steps. The image is commonly that of a small animal, insect, or other creature darting across a surface, although the word can also describe a person moving away in a hurry. In its second common sense, “scuttling” means fleeing or making off, often with a suggestion of fear, nervousness, or secrecy. The word is more evocative than a neutral verb such as “running” because it emphasizes quickness and the impression of small, hurried movement. It is generally used in informal and descriptive writing, particularly in narrative or descriptive contexts involving animals, children, or someone trying not to attract attention.
Moving rapidly with short, quick steps.
"The mouse scuttling along the skirting board startled the cat."
Often used of small animals and insects, and also informally of people moving quickly.
Running away or fleeing, especially quickly or furtively.
"The suspect scuttling down the alley was soon caught."
The sense often carries a suggestion of nervousness, fear, or an attempt to avoid notice.
A scuttling creature moves in a hurry: the word evokes the quick, pattering steps of small feet racing across a surface.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scuttling come from?
The word is a form of “scuttle,” whose history is associated with moving rapidly or running away. Its precise origin is less certain than its modern meanings, so the word's development should not be connected too confidently to a particular modern language family. The present participle “scuttling” has followed the standard English pattern of adding “-ing” to the base verb.
Related word forms
How scuttling is actually used
The word is informal and descriptive, often suggesting quick, somewhat furtive movement. It is especially natural for the scurrying of small animals or insects, though it can describe a person.
Easily confused with scuttling
“Scuttling” is the present-participle and gerund form of “scuttle,” while “scuttle” is the base verb.