# scroll

/ˈskɹoʊɫ/ (US) · /skɹˈəʊl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scroll
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to move through digital content

verb · CEFR A2

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

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

- You can scroll down the page to read the rest of the article.
- Users tend to scroll past long blocks of text unless the information is broken up by clear headings or engaging visuals.

### 2. a roll of paper

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- The ancient scroll was kept in a glass case to protect the delicate paper.
- The historian carefully unrolled the leather scroll to examine the medieval maps drawn on its surface.

### 3. a spiral decoration

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

- The old wooden chair had beautiful scrolls carved into the arms.
- The iron gates were adorned with intricate scrolls that mirrored the floral patterns found in the surrounding garden.

### 4. instrument part

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

- The musician held the violin by the neck, just below the carved scroll.
- Luthiers often take great pride in the symmetry and elegance of the scroll, as it is a signature element of their craftsmanship.

### 5. a spiral pastry

noun · CEFR B2 · British English

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

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

- I bought a cinnamon scroll and a coffee for breakfast.
- The bakery is famous for its glazed apple scrolls, which are baked fresh every morning using a traditional recipe.

## Examples

- I scroll through my social media feed every morning.
- You need to scroll to the bottom of the page to find the 'Accept' button for the terms and conditions.
- While modern interfaces allow users to scroll smoothly through thousands of lines of data, older systems often struggled with the processing power required to render such rapid visual transitions.

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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.