What does strew mean?
Strew means to scatter, spread, or distribute something loosely over a place or surface. It often describes an irregular, uncontrolled sprinkling, as when petals are strewn across a path or a field is strewn with flowers. The word can also appear in the passive construction 'strewn with,' which emphasizes a surface covered by scattered objects: 'the meadow was strewn with crocuses.' Strew is more literary and poetic than verbs such as scatter or spread, and its past participle, strewn, is especially prominent in descriptive writing. Although 'strew' can be used in ordinary contexts, a more elevated register often suits it, particularly with natural scenery. Its image of abundance and informality makes it useful for depicting landscapes, decorative effects, and moments of careless or graceful dispersal.
verbTo scatter or spread something loosely over a surface or area. It can also mean to cover an area with scattered objects.
- To scatter or spread something loosely or indiscriminately.
- To cover an area or surface with scattered objects or substances.
"She strewed rose petals along the garden path."
"The wind strew fallen leaves across the courtyard."
"The hillside was strewn with wildflowers."
To strew is to scatter something freely; the adjective strewn often suggests a surface covered in a beautiful, irregular abundance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does strew come from?
Strew derives from Old English streawian, meaning to scatter or spread, which was formed from a Germanic root associated with straw or strewn material. The related modern words straw and stream descend from the same broad Germanic root, reflected also in compounds such as strawberry. In Middle English, forms meaning scattered or covered appeared, and the modern past participle strewn developed as the dominant inflected form.
Related word forms
How strew is actually used
Strew has a literary or poetic tone, especially when describing the scattering of flowers, leaves, or other natural objects. The past participle 'strewn' is especially common in phrases such as 'strewn with' and 'strewn across.' Both 'strewed' and 'strewn' are used as past forms.
Easily confused with strew
Strew means to scatter or spread something, whereas strain means to filter, exert force on, or remove liquid from something.
Strew means to scatter something in an uncontrolled or dispersed way, whereas throw means to propel it with a deliberate motion.