scrawl

[skrawl]

verb (used with object)

1. to write or draw in a sprawling, awkward manner.

   He scrawled his name hastily across the blackboard.

verb (used without object)

1. to write awkwardly, carelessly, or illegibly.

noun

1. awkward, careless, or illegible handwriting.

2. something scrawled, as a letter or a note.

scrawl

/ skrɔːl /

verb

1. to write or draw (signs, words, etc) carelessly or hastily; scribble

noun

1. careless or scribbled writing, drawing, or marks

Other Word Forms

• scrawler noun
• scrawly adjective
• unscrawled adjective
• unscrawling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrawl¹

1605–15; perhaps to be identified with late Middle English scraule to sprawl, crawl (blend of sprawl and crawl ¹ )

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrawl¹

C17: perhaps a blend of _sprawl and _crawl ¹

Example Sentences

Managers can issue warnings to baristas who repeatedly write on customer cups ahead of time, scrawl something inappropriate or fail to use a Sharpie, according to internal guidance on the mandate to Starbucks stores.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The BBC has seen a copy of the judgement which includes the report and a two-page prescription which shows the doctor's unreadable scrawl.

Read more on BBC

During the walks to the 15th and 17th tee boxes, the pre-prepared European players pulled out blue sharpies from their back pockets and scrawled away.

Read more on BBC

Stalter wore a piece of tape on her purse with the words “Cease fire!” scrawled on it as she walked the red carpet.

Read more on Salon

The “Hacks” actress strolled the red carpet carrying a black purse with the words “CEASE FIRE!” scrawled on it.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• inscribe 
• scribble