Meaning & Definition of word "Scraping"

Scraping

/ˈskreɪ.pɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. A technique or instance of scraping something.
    • Example: The scraping of the old paint was necessary before applying a new coat.
  • 2. The collected residue or material left after scraping.
    • Example: The scraping from the machine had to be disposed of properly.

verb:

  • 1. The action of removing something from a surface by using a sharp or rough edge.
    • Example: She was scraping the burned bits off the bottom of the pan.
  • 2. The process of extracting data from a website or document.
    • Example: He is scraping data from multiple sources to compile a report.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'scrape', which comes from Middle English 'scrapen', from Old Norse 'skrapa' meaning to scrape or remove.

Common Phrases and Expressions

scraping by:

To manage to survive or make a living with difficulty.

scraping the bottom of the barrel:

To use the least desirable things available or to resort to bad options.

scraping off the layer:

Removing a superficial layer to uncover what is underneath.

Related Words

scrape:

To remove or collect a surface layer by sliding a sharp or rough object across it.

shave:

To cut off hair or a layer from a surface very closely.

abrade:

To wear away the surface of something by rubbing.

Slang Meanings of scraping

Meaning: Data scraping used in a sneaky or unethical way.

Example Sentence: He's been scraping sites for personal data without permission.

Meaning: Using information from others in a low-effort manner.

Example Sentence: She's just scraping ideas off the internet instead of coming up with her own.