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View synonyms for scrappy

scrappy

1

[skrap-ee]

adjective

scrappier, scrappiest 
  1. made up of scraps scrap or of odds and ends; fragmentary; disconnected.



scrappy

2

[skrap-ee]

adjective

scrappier, scrappiest 
  1. inclined to fight, argue, or compete; aggressive: Having to defend itself against a giant corporation gave the new company a reputation as a scrappy contender.

    Badgers are such scrappy fighters that coyotes will team up with them out of fear of being eaten by them.

    Having to defend itself against a giant corporation gave the new company a reputation as a scrappy contender.

  2. having or showing spirit and determination, especially in spite of obstacles.

    This era formed dozens of legends—strong-willed, scrappy survivors whose faith in their cause was unshakable.

scrappy

1

/ ˈskræpɪ /

adjective

  1. fragmentary; disjointed

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

scrappy

2

/ ˈskræpɪ /

adjective

  1. informal,  pugnacious

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • scrappily adverb
  • scrappiness noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of scrappy1

First recorded in 1830–40; scrap 1 + -y 1

Origin of scrappy2

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95; scrap 2 + -y 1
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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.

And the American roster was made up of a bunch of scrappy collegians who beat the odds with a mix of grit, discipline and hard work.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The Panthers, who defeated the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Tuesday’s Game 6 to repeat as champions, don’t exactly shy away from their scrappy reputation.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Their goal in their personal work is to combine theme park-like art direction with scrappy, budget-friendly immersive theater, a term that typically denotes some level of active participation on the part of the guest.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Callum: I hope Martin doesn't think he's off the hook because of one scrappy result.

Read more on BBC

Some of the best scenes in the five episodes of “The Lowdown” made available for preview feature father and daughter working as a scrappy team, with Lee slowly winning her trust and partnership.

Read more on Salon

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