scratch test

American  

noun

1. a test for a suspected allergy in which the skin is scratched and an allergen applied to the area, redness indicating a positive reaction.

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scratch test British  

noun

1. med a skin test to determine allergic sensitivity to various substances by placing the allergen to be tested over an area of lightly scratched skin. A positive reaction is typically indicated by the formation of a weal

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Etymology

Origin of scratch test

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

scratch test

For pieces of unknown purity, she performed a quick scratch test using an acid kit to help determine the metal’s karat composition.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 18, 2025

An iodine-based scratch test or spectral analysis of leaves could indicate the presence of little cherry disease before it is exhibited in the fruit, Galimba said.

From Seattle Times ● Feb. 20, 2022