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

“In the pre-greening days, you could spot a grove car by all the scratches on both sides,” he told me.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

The video includes photos of superficial scratches on the vehicle’s expensive leather seats and door panel.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

Since it’s unlikely we’ll ever afford a riverfront property, the dazzling cinematography on “The Madison” scratches that itch.

From Salon • Mar. 23, 2026

“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

I poked through its contents until I found my father’s pocket watch and traced my thumb over the case’s familiar dings and scratches.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros