Definition

A piece of writing or drawing that is done quickly and carelessly, often in a messy or untidy way.

Example

The child's scrawling covered the entire page.

Conversation

Did you see that scrawling on the wall in the cafe?

Yeah, it was pretty messy but kind of artistic.

I wonder who did it and why they chose that spot for their scrawling.

Maybe it was just a random thought they wanted to share!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To write or draw carelessly and quickly, often resulting in messy or illegible text.

Example

She was scrawling her thoughts in a notebook during the lecture.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I saw you scrawling in your notebook earlier, what were you working on?

Oh, just some ideas for my next art project.

It looked interesting! Do you often spend time scrawling like that?

Root Explanation

Scrawling is derived from the word 'scrawl' (originating from the Middle English 'scralen', meaning to scratch or scribble) with the addition of the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process of). The term 'scrawling' refers to the act of writing or drawing carelessly or hastily, often in a messy manner.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone 'scratching' out letters quickly and carelessly — that's what 'scrawling' means, the action of writing in a hurried, messy way.

Visually Confused Words