scrappy

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

scrap +‎ -y

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /ˈskɹæpi/
    • (file)
  • Rhymes: -æpi

Adjective[edit]

scrappy (comparative scrappier, superlative scrappiest)

  1. Consisting of scraps; fragmentary; lacking unity or consistency.
    That was a scrappy lecture.
  2. (informal) Having an aggressive spirit; inclined to fight or strive.
    He's a scrappy dog and will charge at you if you taunt him.
    • 2012, Mark Rice-Oxley, Underneath the Lemon Tree:
      In those days PGS [Portsmouth Grammar School] was full of sadistic staff and scrappy boys called things like Smudger, Muzz and Titch.
    • 2013 August 10, Lexington, “Keeping the mighty honest”, in The Economist, volume 408, number 8848:
      The [Washington] Post's proprietor through those turbulent [Watergate] days, Katharine Graham, held a double place in Washington’s hierarchy: at once regal Georgetown hostess and scrappy newshound, ready to hold the establishment to account.
  3. (informal) (Of a fight) characterised by lots of ungainly or wild punches, grabs, wrestling, etc.
  4. (informal) (Of a sports match) characterised by awkward or clumsy play.

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