scratch
verb (used with object)
to break, mar, or mark the surface of by rubbing, scraping, or tearing with something sharp or rough.
was scratching
-
past progressiveof scratch.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Like his counterparts in Phoenix, dealer Matt Bowers was scratching his head earlier this year when he noticed Carvana’s Dallas store rocketing up the Stellantis sales charts.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 18, 2026
Simply put, JOP was scratching a creative itch by flirting with Jersey club, drill and house music.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 16, 2025
"In the second half I was scratching my head thinking it's a different team," said former England midfielder Karen Carney on ITV.
From BBC ● Feb. 21, 2025
"I was scratching my head as to what this means because this pattern doesn't fit anything that we know about these systems," Pasham recalls.
From Science Daily ● Mar. 27, 2024
Mom had said I needed to cut my long fingernails back because I was scratching myself all up in my sleep.
From "Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key" by Jack Gantos
