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scratch line

American  

noun

  1. a line that marks the start of a race.

  2. Track and Field. a line that a competitor is not allowed to step over while performing in certain events, as the triple jump or javelin throw.


Etymology

Origin of scratch line

First recorded in 1895–1900

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.

The outer edge of this plank is considered the scratch line.

From Project Gutenberg