Showing results for "scratches"

• plural of scratch.
• present tense form of scratch (3rd person singular).

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; see origin at scratch, -s ³

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

scratches

A new study led by researchers at the University of Bologna suggests that the markings were far more organized than simple scratches or improvised decorations.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 9, 2026

Duration measures how far a fund drops when rates rise, and a long-term Treasury fund can post deep losses on a move that barely scratches a short-term bond fund.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 28, 2026

Clover’s long, tasseled ears collect leaves, grass, and assorted debris on walks, and she scratches them out semiregularly.

From Slate ● Jun. 20, 2026

The bonnet of the car was left with two scratches that he estimated would cost up to £300 to get fixed professionally.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

He put his backpack on, careful not to rub over his scratches.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young