scrappy
1 Americanadjective
adjective
-
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.
-
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.
adjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of scrappy1
First recorded in 1830–40; scrap 1 + -y 1
Origin of scrappy2
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.
These are ideal for weeknight stir-fries, skillet chilis or brothy pots of beans where small, scrappy bits of protein can stretch themselves beautifully.
From Salon • May 22, 2026
Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This” “It’s a coin toss between presumed front-runners Jean Smart and Lisa Kudrow, with Elle Fanning from ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’ a scrappy spoiler in a strong field of candidates.
From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026
The world's richest person is suing OpenAI over its transformation from a scrappy nonprofit into the $850 billion juggernaut behind ChatGPT.
From Barron's • May 18, 2026
Now I’m pleased to report that celebration is in order—Future has returned to its scrappy, exciting roots.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026
“There’s nothing to be scared of, Nate. You're small and scrappy and can get out of any situation the world throws at you.”
From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle
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.
