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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Don't confuse this disease with less-serious scurf, which creates small, round, dark spots on tuber surfaces but doesn't affect eating quality. —The Editors, Good Housekeeping, 21 May 2020

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

Don't confuse this disease with less-serious scurf, which creates small, round, dark spots on tuber surfaces but doesn't affect eating quality. Stem rot, or wilt, is a fungus that enters plants injured by insects, careless cultivation, or wind. —The Editors Of Organic Life, Good Housekeeping, 15 Mar. 2017

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

Medical Definition

scurf

noun

ˈskərf 

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

specifically : dandruff

scurfy

ˈskər-fē 

adjective