scurry

[skur-ee, skuhr-ee]

verb (used without object)

scurried, scurrying 

1. to go or move quickly or in haste.

verb (used with object)

scurried, scurrying 

1. to send hurrying along.

noun

plural

scurries 

1. a scurrying rush.

   the scurry of little feet on the stairs.

2. a short run or race.

scurry

/ ˈskʌrɪ /

verb

1. to move about or proceed hurriedly

2. (intr) to whirl about

noun

1. the act or sound of scurrying

2. a brisk light whirling movement, as of snow

3. horse racing a short race or sprint

Word History and Origins

Origin of scurry¹

First recorded in 1800–10; extracted from hurry-scurry

Word History and Origins

Origin of scurry¹

C19: probably shortened from hurry-scurry

Example Sentences

Squirrels scurry across the pentagonal deck, a space reserved for guests, holidays, and serious Choi family conversations.

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Mrs. Clarke was not a small woman, nor a young one, but she scurried down the ladder as nimbly as a squirrel.

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The children scurried to obey, and Penelope could not help thinking that the eagerness and good cheer of her students was the very best present of all.

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Penelope scurried to catch up, and when she looked behind her, Old Timothy was gone.

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She refused her supper and instead demanded a particular type of marzipan that Mrs. Clarke had to send the young houseboy, Jasper, scurrying all over London to find.

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Related Words

• bustle 
• dart 
• dash 
• hurry 
• rip 
• scamper 
• scoot 
• scuttle 
• sprint 
• whisk 
• zip