scratches

[skrach-iz]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. a disease of horses marked by dry rifts or chaps that appear on the skin near the fetlock, behind the knee, or in front of the hock.

scratches

/ ˈskrætʃɪz /

noun

1. Also called: cracked heels.  mud fever. (functioning as singular) a disease of horses characterized by dermatitis in the region of the fetlock

Word History and Origins

Origin of scratches¹

First recorded in 1605–15; scratch, -s ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of scratches¹

C16: so called because it makes the pastern appear to be scratched

Example Sentences

It had some scrapes and scratches, but no major damage.

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If Milei’s party scratches out a narrow win, he will have a fighting chance to carry out phase two of his remake of Argentina.

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If you stack pans for storage, place a towel between them to prevent scratches.

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Its gleaming surface scratches if we breathe on it.

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Photos show the statue bearing scratches and dents from its prior confiscation.

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