back scratcher
Americannoun
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a long-handled device for scratching one's own back.
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a person who exchanges favors or services for mutual advantage.
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of back scratcher
First recorded in 1785–95
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Second place receives a back scratcher made from a dried alligator hand, complete with four long claws.
From Washington Post • Jun. 2, 2022
But, they didn’t really find the kind of games that scratched that particular itch, so they decided to make their own back scratcher.
From The Verge • May 18, 2022
I’ve got an exercise regime where I use a back scratcher, because I have so many friends — especially in the gay community — who have rock hard abs and exercise videos.
From Washington Post • Apr. 6, 2020
The front room is full of props she's planning to use - a doll with long, blonde hair for hairdressing scenarios, some noisy jewellery, a back scratcher, a sheet of wrapping paper.
From BBC • Dec. 10, 2014
Jamie finds a back scratcher that looks like a bear paw.
From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
