scratch pad

noun

1. a pad of paper used for jotting down ideas, informal notes, preliminary writing, etc.

scratch pad

noun

1. a notebook, esp one with detachable leaves

2. computing a small semiconductor memory for temporary storage

Word History and Origins

Origin of scratch pad¹

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

In a shot that likely got left in Robert Altman's scratch pad for being too on-the-nose, the Nashville star wrote "Get me to God's country" over an image of his private jet.

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In his pockets he had the stub of a pencil, a small scratch pad, quite damp, a few coins, the keys to his house, and his penknife.

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They are available in various finishes with scratch pads and shelf cushions.

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All of them still claim fealty to the Don, who now seems content to use hundreds of pages of government documents as scratch pads and toilet paper.

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But they belong on your scratch pad, not in the final equation you’re presenting your employer.

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