1. (From "scratchpad") Describes a data structure or recording medium attached to a machine for testing or temporary-use purposes; one that can be scribble d on without loss. Usually in the combining forms "scratch memory", "scratch register", "scratch disk", "scratch tape", "scratch volume".
See also scratch monkey .
2. (primarily IBM ) To delete (as in a file).
[ Jargon File ]
(1994-12-15)