scuff

American  

[skuhf] / skʌf /

verb (used with object)

1. to scrape (something) with one's foot or feet.

2. to rub or scrape (one's foot or feet) over something.

3. to mar by scraping or hard use, as shoes or furniture.

4. Chiefly Scot.

   1. to brush against, as in passing.

   2. to brush off; wipe off.

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verb (used without object)

1. to walk without raising the feet from the ground; shuffle.

2. to scrape or rub one's foot back and forth over something.

3. to be or become marred or scratched by scraping or wear.

4. (of machine parts, as gear teeth) to creep from pressure and friction so that ridges appear transversely to the direction of wear.

noun

1. the act or sound of scuffing.

2. a flat-heeled slipper with a full-length sole and an upper part covering only the front of the foot.

3. a marred or scratched place on an item, as from scraping or wear.

scuff British  

/ skʌf /

verb

1. to scrape or drag (the feet) while walking

2. to rub or scratch (a surface) or (of a surface) to become rubbed or scratched

3. (tr) to poke at (something) with the foot

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noun

1. the act or sound of scuffing

2. a rubbed place caused by scuffing

3. a backless slipper

Etymology

Origin of scuff

First recorded in 1585–95, scuff is from the Middle Low German word schūven to shove

Example Sentences

Keeping my eyes on the scuffed gray paint above the television should soothe my nerves.

From Literature

He was wearing faded jeans, scuffed work boots, and a sleeveless T-shirt that showed off his tan and well-defined biceps and forearms.

From Literature

The striker scuffed the ball home from close range.

From Barron's

He wears scuffed shoes and a striped necktie as a belt.

From Literature

We head for seats near Ray, Boo scuffing along in the giant boots, me holding her hand to keep her upright.

From Literature