English Reference
noun

scores

n.
US /ˈskɔɹz/ UK /skˈɔːz/ scores

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Sport

    the number of points each team or player has in a competition.

    the recorded points or goals achieved by participants in a competitive event.

    Simple

    The final scores were posted on the board after the match ended.

    In context

    Despite the high scores recorded in the first half, the game slowed down significantly as both teams adopted more defensive strategies.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Literary

    a very large number of people or things.

    a large but unspecified number; literally multiples of twenty, but used figuratively for any significant quantity.

    Simple

    Scores of people waited outside the shop for the new phone to go on sale.

    In context

    Scores of protesters gathered in the central plaza, demanding immediate legislative reform following the controversial announcement.

    few
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    the written music for a film, play, or orchestra.

    the written or printed representations of musical compositions, particularly those for films or theatrical productions.

    Simple

    He has written the musical scores for several famous Hollywood movies.

    In context

    The conductor spent weeks studying the original scores to ensure the orchestra captured the subtle nuances intended by the composer.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced SlangBritish English

    a small bag of illegal drugs, often worth a specific amount of money.

    a successful purchase of illicit drugs; specifically used in British slang for a twenty-pound bag of cannabis.

    Simple

    The police were watching the corner where the local scores usually happened.

    In context

    The documentary explored the underground economy of the city, focusing on how small-scale scores were managed in residential areas.

Mental health scores were lower among people in their mid-30s to late 40s compared with those aged 18 to 34, but higher among those aged 65 and older.

Phys.org· 13 Aug 2026

Taking an exam on a hot day is linked to lower test scores .

The Conversation· 27 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated