scab
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /skæb/
KK: /skæb/
intransitive verb
Definition
To develop a hard, dry covering on a wound or sore, often as part of the healing process.
Example
After the injury, his skin began to scab over.
Tense Forms
Past: scabbed
Past Participle: scabbed
Conversation
Did you hear that Jake had to scab last week?
Yeah, I heard he took a job during the strike.
I can't believe he would choose to scab instead of standing with his coworkers.
It’s a tough choice, but I guess he needed the money.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
crust
scabbed
heal
Antonyms
bleed
open
wound
noun
Definition
A hard covering that forms over a healing wound, or a person who works in place of others during a strike.
Example
The doctor said the scab would fall off in a few days as the wound healed.
Conversation
Did you see that scab on my arm from my fall yesterday?
Yeah, it looks pretty painful!
I know, but it's healing well; I just need to keep it clean.
Root Explanation
**Scab** → The word 'scab' originates from Old English 'sceabb', meaning a scab or crust formed on a wound. It refers to the protective layer that forms over a healing injury.
Memory Tip
Think of a protective 'crust' that forms over a wound — that's what a scab is.
Visually Confused Words
scrab
sab
cab
scrabe
scarab
bescab