SCRATCHES Synonyms: 53 Similar and Opposite Words

scratches 1 of 2

noun

plural of scratch

as in scrapes

a harsh grating sound the scratch of metal on metal is not a good sound for a car to make

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scratches

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of scratch

as in bruises

to damage by rubbing against a sharp or rough surface scratched his arm on a branch

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in rubs

to pass roughly and noisily over or against a surface the branches of the willow tree scratch against the windowpane whenever the wind blows

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in scribbles

to write or draw hastily or carelessly scratched a quick doodle in the margins

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of scratches

Noun

Six legs and a center support help create a stable foundation, while linen protectors cover the rail ends and floor-friendly glides help prevent scratches on hard floors. — Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 22 July 2026 So consider the size and severity of scratches and markings, as well as the item’s price. — Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 21 July 2026 The lightweight carbon steel body heats water quickly while remaining easier to lift than cast iron alternatives, and the durable porcelain enamel resists rust and scratches. — Better Homes & Gardens, 16 July 2026 Prosecutors had alleged Smith rubbed the Orland Park child’s back under his shirt, causing scratches, during their 14 tutoring sessions from December 2025 to January. — Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 16 July 2026 Cars have destroyed one-third of the roughly 70 planters the city installed back in 2020 and marred the survivors with chips, scratches and dents. — Charlotte Observer, 15 July 2026 Natural Stone Surfaces Another surface that’s susceptible to scratches and etching is natural stone. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 15 July 2026 She was checked by paramedics at the scene and treated for scratches, but she was not transported by ambulance to a hospital. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 13 July 2026 If the white finish has been scraped away or the leather has visible scratches, cleaning alone won’t completely restore the area. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 9 July 2026

Verb

Preparing for a college football Saturday with ACC Network scratches the same gameplanning itch for Fisher that used to take up his time during his more than three decades as a coach. — David Ubben, New York Times, 17 July 2026 Food particles and microorganisms can become trapped in the nicks, grooves, and scratches on the board. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 28 June 2026 Price's dog Chaos suffered extensive blood loss and several gashes and scratches from the bear attack. — Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026 Officers noted in the affidavit that the girlfriend’s injuries didn’t quite match her claims, observing a small mark on her neck, scratches on her arm and a small cut on her hand. — Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 8 June 2026 But that just scratches the surface. — R. Scott Raynovich, Forbes.com, 21 May 2026 Because glass scratches easily, pressure matters here. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 17 May 2026 Last, but certainly not least from the Article Memorial Day sale, the brand’s Torme desk scratches the itch for office furniture that isn’t sterile or corporate-looking. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 11 May 2026 Find an activity that meets your current needs With so many facets to the creative life, there is bound to be an endeavor that scratches an itch. — Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 8 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for scratches

Noun

Necrotizing fasciitis can be contracted when bacteria that thrives in warm, brackish waters enters the body through open cuts, scrapes, burns or other puncture wounds, or by eating raw or undercooked shellfish.

— Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 15 July 2026
The agency also recommends those at higher risk for infection wear water shoes or clothes in coastal water to prevent cuts and scrapes.

— Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 9 July 2026

Definition of scrapes

Verb

But when Ava makes a bathroom trip, Deb hastily scribbles something in her notepad.

— Judy Berman, Time, 29 May 2026
More tournaments to come While Yount has developed a near-superpower of watching 12 mats at once, Smith, for the most part, relaxes in his seat and enjoys the show at Ball Arena while Yount scribbles on his brackets.

— Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 21 Feb. 2026

Definition of scribbles

Noun

The durable metal is also rust-resistant, and reviews say that despite its metal frame, creaks and squeaks are minimal.

— Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 16 July 2026
Mr Cobra opens like a dark, cobwebbed staircase leading into a vast and foreboding space, all frantic flute and piano, creaks, and bone-chilling screeches (not to mention a slutty monologue seemingly communicated via Google Translate).

— Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 17 Apr. 2026