scarf

noun

ˈskärf 

plural scarves ˈskärvz  or scarfs

1

: a broad band of cloth worn about the shoulders, around the neck, or over the head

2

: runner sense 6b

3

a

: a military or official sash usually indicative of rank

b

archaic : tippet sense 3

Examples of scarf in a Sentence

the college students scarfed the entire contents of the care package in one sitting

Recent Examples on the Web

The rest was all flowing robes and harem pants and scarves, at least two. —Literary Hub, 9 June 2026

His first lineup ranges in price from $345 to $420 for beanies; $645 to $850 for scarves; $1,090 to $1,990 for sweaters and cardigans, and $1,120 to $1,290 for polos. —Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 9 June 2026

This includes regularly moisturizing the scalp, wearing a satin or silk scarf at night to reduce friction, and avoiding excessive manipulation of the braids. —Omenaa Boakye, InStyle, 9 June 2026

Located on Level 2 near Sephora, the store offers everything from jerseys and scarves to collectibles, accessories and souvenirs. —Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably modification of Middle French dialect (Norman) escreppe, Middle French escherpe sash, sling, from Old French, pilgrim's shoulder bag, from Medieval Latin scrippum

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined at sense 3a

Phrases Containing scarf

• infinity scarf
• scarf down
• scarf up

Rhymes for scarf

• scharf
• headscarf

Kids Definition

scarf

1 of 2 noun

ˈskärf 

plural scarves

ˈskärvz

or scarfs

1

: a broad band of cloth worn about the shoulders, around the neck, over the head, or about the waist

2

: runner sense 5b

scarf

2 of 2 verb

: scoff entry 3 sense 1

scarfed down my sandwich