# scrambled

/ˈskɹæmbəɫd/ (US) · /skɹˈæmbəld/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scrambled
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. cooking eggs

adjective · CEFR A2

describes eggs that are mixed together and cooked in a pan.

For teachers: referring to eggs beaten together and cooked while being stirred, typically with butter and milk.

- I usually have scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast on Sundays.
- The chef served the scrambled eggs while they were still slightly creamy, garnished with fresh chives and a side of smoked salmon.

### 2. mixed up or disordered

adjective · CEFR B2

mixed together in a messy way so the original order is lost.

For teachers: thrown together in a confused or disordered manner; lacking a coherent arrangement.

- The letters on the table were all scrambled, making it hard to read the message.
- After the move, all my files were in a scrambled state, and it took me nearly a week to restore the original filing system.

### 3. encoded or hidden

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

changed into a secret code so that people cannot understand or listen to it.

For teachers: processed by an electronic device to make a broadcast or signal unintelligible without a specific decoder.

- The spy sent a scrambled message that only his team could understand.
- The satellite television signal remained scrambled until the subscription was renewed and the decryption key was updated.

## Examples

- I usually have scrambled eggs for breakfast.
- The pilot reported that the radio signal was scrambled and he could not understand the instructions.
- In the rush to evacuate the building, the files were left in a scrambled heap on the floor, making it impossible to determine which documents were missing.

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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.