English Dictionary
◊ SNAPPING BEETLE
scratch
n 1: an abraded area where the skin is torn or worn off [syn: {abrasion},
{scrape}, {excoriation}]
2: a depression scratched or carved into a surface [syn: {incision},
{notch}, {prick}, {slit}, {dent}]
3: dry mash for poultry [syn: {chicken feed}]
4: a harsh noise made by scraping; "the scrape of violin bows
distracted her" [syn: {scrape}, {scraping}, {scratching}]
5: poor handwriting [syn: {scribble}, {scrawl}, {cacography}]
6: an indication of damage [syn: {scrape}, {scar}, {mark}]
v 1: cause friction [syn: {rub}, {fray}, {fret}, {chafe}]
2: cut the surface of; wear away the surface of [syn: {scrape},
{scratch up}]
3: scrape or rub as if to relieve itching [syn: {rub}, {itch}]
English Computing Dictionary
◊ MAPLE
scratch
1. (From "scratchpad") Describes a data structure or recording
medium attached to a machine for testing or temporary-use
purposes; one that can be {scribble}d on without loss.
Usually in the combining forms "scratch memory", "scratch
register", "scratch disk", "scratch tape", "scratch volume".
See also {scratch monkey}.
2. (primarily {IBM}) To delete (as in a file).
[{Jargon File}]
(1994-12-15)