ENGLISH
REFERENCE

scroll

v. · n.
US //ˈskɹoʊɫ// UK //skɹˈəʊl// scroll
  1. 1 to move through digital content (v.)
    A2 Elementary Computing

    to move up, down, or across a screen to see more information.

    to move text or images on a digital display vertically or horizontally to view content that extends beyond the screen's boundaries.

    Example

    You can scroll down the page to read the rest of the article.

    Example

    Users tend to scroll past long blocks of text unless the information is broken up by clear headings or engaging visuals.
  2. 2 a roll of paper (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a long roll of paper or parchment used for writing or drawing.

    a roll of parchment, papyrus, or paper containing writing or images, typically used before the invention of the bound book.

    Example

    The ancient scroll was kept in a glass case to protect the delicate paper.

    Example

    The historian carefully unrolled the leather scroll to examine the medieval maps drawn on its surface.
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  1. 3 a spiral decoration (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    a decoration that looks like a spiral or a curled leaf.

    an ornamental design or architectural feature consisting of spiral or volute shapes, often resembling plant forms.

    Example

    The old wooden chair had beautiful scrolls carved into the arms.

    Example

    The iron gates were adorned with intricate scrolls that mirrored the floral patterns found in the surrounding garden.
  2. 4 instrument part (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Music

    the curled wooden end at the top of a violin or cello.

    the decorative, carved end of the neck of a stringed instrument, such as a violin or viola.

    Example

    The musician held the violin by the neck, just below the carved scroll.

    Example

    Luthiers often take great pride in the symmetry and elegance of the scroll, as it is a signature element of their craftsmanship.
    • headstock
  3. 5 a spiral pastry (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Cooking

    a type of sweet bread or pastry rolled into a spiral shape.

    a sweet roll or pastry formed by rolling dough into a spiral, often containing cinnamon or fruit.

    Example

    I bought a cinnamon scroll and a coffee for breakfast.

    Example

    The bakery is famous for its glazed apple scrolls, which are baked fresh every morning using a traditional recipe.
Origin

From Middle English scrowle, scrolle, from earlier scrowe, scrouwe (influenced by Middle English rolle), from Old French escroe, escrowe, escrouwe (“scroll, strip of parchment”), from Frankish skrōda (“a shred”), from Proto-Germanic skraudō, from skrew- (“to cut; cutting tool”), extension of (s)ker- (“to cut”). Doublet of shred and escrow.

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