Definition

Damaged or marked by cuts or scars, often referring to land or surfaces that have been disturbed or harmed.

Example

The scarified land struggled to support new plant growth after the harsh winter.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen the park lately?

Yeah, it looks really scarified after all that construction.

I know, it's such a shame because it used to be so beautiful.

I hope they fix it up soon, so it can be nice again.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make shallow cuts in the surface of something, often to improve growth or health, especially in gardening or agriculture.

Example

The gardener scarified the lawn to help the grass grow better.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know I scarified my lawn last weekend?

Really? How did it go?

It was a lot of work, but I think it will help the grass grow better.

Root Explanation

Scarified → It is formed from "scar" (from Old French *escarre*, meaning a mark or notch) and the suffix "-ify" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "scarified" means to make marks or notches on a surface, often used in the context of soil preparation.

Memory Tip

Think of making 'marks' ('scar') on a surface to 'cause' a change ('-ify'). This helps you remember that scarified means to create notches or marks.

Visually Confused Words