scratches

[ skrach-iz ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. a disease of horses marked by dry rifts or chaps that appear on the skin near the fetlock, behind the knee, or in front of the hock.

scratches

/ ˈskrætʃɪz /

noun

1. functioning as singular a disease of horses characterized by dermatitis in the region of the fetlock Also calledcracked heelsmud fever

Word History and Origins

Origin of scratches¹

First recorded in 1605–15; scratch, -s ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of scratches¹

C16: so called because it makes the pastern appear to be scratched

Example Sentences

He says that someone cut the legs of jogger, when no one had, although her legs were covered with scratches.

From The Daily Beast

For nationalists who hate gay people, perhaps the parallel should be “When Russia scratches, the world gets scabies.”

From The Daily Beast

He turned the paper over to the boys, who immediately set to work making scratches in the morning line, to protect their bets.

From The Daily Beast

The soldier scratches his rear, fires a gun into the air, and passes gas.

From The Daily Beast

Various scratches and cuts line her arms and face; a pus-filled abscess burns on her right arm.

From The Daily Beast

Scratches and flaws in the glass of slide or cover are likewise a common source of confusion to beginners.

From Project Gutenberg

Beastly nuisance; we shall all have to clear out, for I suppose it won't be a mere matter of scratches.

From Project Gutenberg

A few scratches here and there marred the polish of the frame and one cushion had sustained an ugly rent.

From Project Gutenberg

Dauntlessly, in spite of thorns and the numberless scratches they inflicted, Digby led the way.

From Project Gutenberg

He looked down at his hand, where two long red scratches oozed a trickle of blood.

From Project Gutenberg