# scrape

/ˈskɹeɪp/ (US) · /skɹˈeɪp/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scrape
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

to remove something from a surface by pulling a hard tool or your nails across it. You can also use it to mean hitting against a hard surface and getting a small injury.

For teachers: to drag a sharp or hard tool across a surface to remove material; also, to graze or abrade the skin through contact with a rough surface.

## Examples

- I had to scrape the ice off the windshield.
- She used a knife to scrape the old paint from the wooden chair before refinishing it.
- Although he tried to scrape together enough money to fix the boat, the cost of the repairs proved too high after several seasons of saltwater damage.

## Usage notes

- Transitive — typically takes a direct object.

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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.