# scaled

/ˈskeɪɫd/ (US) · /skˈeɪld/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scaled
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. covered in scales

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

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

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

- The lizard has a scaled back that protects it from the hot sun.
- 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. changed in size

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- The fish has shiny, scaled skin.
- The lizard's scaled body helps it move easily through the dry desert sand.
- The artist painted the dragon with meticulous detail, ensuring every scaled segment of its wing caught the light.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.