scurf

noun

ˈskərf 

1

: thin dry scales detached from the epidermis especially in an abnormal skin condition

specifically : dandruff

2

a

: something like flakes or scales adhering to a surface

b

: the foul remains of something adherent

3

a

: a scaly deposit or covering on some plant parts

also : a localized or general darkening and roughening of a plant surface usually more pronounced than russeting

b

: a plant disease characterized by scurf

scurfy

ˈskər-fē 

adjective

Examples of scurf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Don't confuse this disease with less-serious scurf, which creates small, round and dark spots on tuber surfaces without affecting eating quality. —Mariah Thomas, Good Housekeeping, 29 Mar. 2023

Occasionally, people can have an infestation of a tiny parasitic mite called Demodex louse on their eyelashes, which can leave a flaky substance called scurf and cause serious inflammation, Diaz said. —Sudiksha Kochi, USA TODAY, 14 Sep. 2021

There is some empirical proof that a big mess can be the sign of a creative mind, and that a swirl of scurf and funk can give birth to history-changing ideas. —Penelope Green, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2020

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Icelandic skurfa scurf; akin to Old High German scorf scurf, Old English sceorfan to scarify

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for scurf

• serf
• surf
• turf

Medical Definition

scurf

noun

ˈskərf 

: thin dry scales detached from the epidermis especially in an abnormal skin condition

specifically : dandruff

scurfy

ˈskər-fē 

adjective