ENGLISH
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scaled

adj. · v.
US //ˈskeɪɫd// UK //skˈeɪld// scaled
  1. 1 covered in scales (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    covered with small, hard plates, like the skin of a fish, snake, or lizard.

    covered with scales or scale-like structures; typically used in biological contexts to describe the skin of reptiles or fish.

    Example

    The lizard has a scaled back that protects it from the hot sun.

    Example

    The biologist noted that the specimen's scaled underbelly was significantly paler than its dorsal surface, a common trait in this genus.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it describes.
  2. 2 changed in size (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Math

    made larger or smaller while keeping the same shape and proportions.

    adjusted in size or scale according to a fixed ratio or proportion.

    Example

    The architect showed us a scaled model of the new library.

    Example

    The digital image was scaled down to fit the mobile interface without losing its original aspect ratio.

    Usage

    Often used as a past participle adjective before a noun like 'model', 'drawing', or 'map'.
  3. 3 climbed up (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    climbed up something very steep, like a wall or a mountain.

    ascended a steep incline or vertical surface, often with difficulty.

    Example

    The hikers finally scaled the peak just before the sun went down.

    Example

    The commandos scaled the fortress walls under the cover of darkness, bypassing the primary gates entirely.

    Usage

    This is the past tense form of the transitive verb 'scale'.
Related words

Last updated June 20, 2026