Definition

The thinnest or weakest in appearance, often lacking in muscle or fat.

Example

He was the scrawniest kid in the class, but he was also the fastest runner.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that cat in the park?

Yeah, it looked like the scrawniest cat I've ever seen!

I know, right? It was almost all bones!

Poor thing! It definitely needs some good food.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scrawniest → It is formed from "scrawny" (from the dialectal variant of "scraw" meaning to scratch or scrape) and the superlative suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "scrawniest" means the most thin or emaciated, as if scraped down.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who looks like they have been 'scratched' or 'scraped' down to their bare bones, which helps you remember that 'scrawniest' refers to being the most thin.

Visually Confused Words