adj.
Pronunciation: ' skra-ch ē
Function: adjective
Inflected Form: scratch · i · er ; -est
Date: 1827
1 : marked or made with scratches < scratchy drawing> < scratchy handwriting>
2 : likely to scratch : PRICKLY < scratchy undergrowth>
3 : making a scratching noise
4 : uneven in quality : RAGGED
5 : causing tingling or itching : IRRITATING < scratchy wool>
6 : somewhat inflamed and sore <a scratchy throat>
– scratch · i · ly \ -ch ə -l ē \ adverb
– scratch · i · ness \ -ch ē -n ə s \ noun