scrawl
verb (used with object)
to write or draw in a sprawling, awkward manner.
had scrawled
-
past perfectof scrawl.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
A piece of concrete that the family had scrawled their names in.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 20, 2026
Customers had scrawled various messages of love and pleas including “Come to Brasil.”
From Slate ● Nov. 2, 2024
Based on the date I had scrawled on the lid with a Sharpie, I'd purchased the jar in November of 2018.
From Salon ● Oct. 21, 2023
Elvis Francois, 47, had scrawled the word “help” in English on the boat’s hull, which officials said was key to his rescue.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 19, 2023
Anya flipped the book open past the first page, where Ivan had scrawled his “insurance” the day before.
From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack
