# scraper

/ˈskɹeɪpɝ/ (US) · /skɹˈeɪpɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scraper
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a tool used to remove something from a surface, like dirt from a window. In computing, it is a program that copies data from a website automatically.

For teachers: an instrument or tool used for removing a substance from a surface; in a technical context, a software application that extracts data from web pages. Informal in the computing sense; often used in the phrase 'web scraper'.

## Examples

- He used a plastic scraper to remove the old paint from the wall.
- The archaeologist used a small metal scraper to carefully remove the top layer of soil without damaging the bones.
- While a manual scraper might take hours to gather the necessary data, an automated web scraper can extract thousands of records in seconds, provided the site's security protocols are bypassed.

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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.