Meaning & Definition of word "Scribble"

Scribble

/ˈskrɪb.əl/

noun:

  • 1. a piece of writing or drawing that is messy, hasty, or illegible.
    • Example: The child handed me a scribble that looked like a house.
  • 2. a hasty or careless piece of writing.
    • Example: Her scribble on the back of the envelope was barely readable.

verb:

  • 1. to write or draw carelessly and not clearly.
    • Example: She scribbled a note to herself during the meeting.
  • 2. to write in a hurried or careless way.
    • Example: He scribbled down the phone number before it slipped his mind.

Etymology

The word 'scribble' comes from the Latin 'scribere', meaning 'to write'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Scribble away:

To write or draw in a carefree or uninhibited manner.

Scribble something down:

To write something hastily.

Scribbles on the side:

Notes or drawings made on the margins or edges.

Related Words

scrawl:

To write or draw carelessly and quickly.

doodle:

A simple, spontaneous drawing made while a person's attention is otherwise occupied.

jot:

To write something down quickly.

Slang Meanings of scribble

Meaning: To write illegibly.

Example Sentence: Stop scribbling! I can't read your notes.

Meaning: To make a hasty or messy note.

Example Sentence: I just scribbled my grocery list on a napkin.