scratches

American  

[skrach-iz] / ˈskrætʃ ɪz /

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.

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scratches British  

/ ˈskrætʃɪz /

noun

1. Also called: cracked heels.   mud fever.  (functioning as singular) a disease of horses characterized by dermatitis in the region of the fetlock

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Etymology

Origin of scratches

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

Example Sentences

“Our 737 program is performing rework on a group of airplanes to fix wires that have small scratches due to a machining error,” a Boeing spokesperson said.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

But Flock’s AI-powered cameras go even further by also documenting other identifying vehicle details, such as make, model and color, as well as any distinctive markings like scratches or dents on a bumper.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2026

If the car has significant interior damage or noticeable dents and scratches, Consumer Reports notes, expect to pay extra.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 4, 2026

And that barely scratches the surface of how bad things are going to get as our planet cooks and our ecosystem collapses.

From Salon • Dec. 31, 2025

Nutsawoo was their pet squirrel, and the children spoiled him with treats and head scratches as often as the furry rascal would let them.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood