chicken scratch
The term "chicken scratch" has varied meanings, from messy handwriting to specific types of feed and embroidery.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2General
(informal, idiomatic)Extremely messy or cramped handwriting that is difficult to read.
Example
- I couldn't read his notes; they were just chicken scratch.
- Her handwriting looked like chicken scratch on the page.
C1Agriculture
(technical)A mix of grains and by-products used as feed for chickens.
Example
- Farmers often use chicken scratch to feed their poultry.
- The chicken scratch consisted of corn, wheat, and barley.
C1Craft
(technical)A style of cross-stitch embroidery done on gingham fabric.
Example
- She learned to do chicken scratch on gingham fabric from her grandmother.
- Chicken scratch embroidery is a popular folk art in some regions.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "chicken scratch":