Definition

In a way that is rough or uncomfortable to the touch or sound.

Example

The cat meowed scratchily, making it clear it was unhappy.

Conversation

Did you hear that song playing earlier?

Yeah, it sounded a bit scratchily on the radio.

I thought so too; it was hard to enjoy it.

Maybe we should listen to it on a different app.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scratchily → It is formed from "scratch" (from Old English *scratcan*, meaning to scrape or scratch) and the suffix "-ily" (meaning in a manner). The word "scratchily" means in a manner that involves scraping or scratching.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'scraping' ('scratch') and how doing it 'in a manner' ('-ily') describes the way it is done. This helps you remember that 'scratchily' refers to doing something in a scraping way.

Visually Confused Words