scratchy

adjective

ˈskra-chē 

scratchier; scratchiest

1

: marked or made with scratches

scratchy drawing

scratchy handwriting

2

: likely to scratch : prickly

scratchy undergrowth

3

: making a scratching noise

4

: uneven in quality : ragged

5

: causing tingling or itching : irritating

scratchy wool

6

: somewhat inflamed and sore

a scratchy throat

scratchily

ˈskra-chə-lē 

adverb

scratchiness

ˈskra-chē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• brambly
• prickly
• thistly
• thorny

Examples of scratchy in a Sentence

listening to scratchy old records

The costume is made from scratchy material.

He is sick with a scratchy throat.

Recent Examples on the Web

Watkins was a raw, though scratchy, wide forward, prolific at youth team level but erratic in his overall game. —Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025

Understanding Flannel and Brushed Cotton Honorable Mentions Article Brushed Cotton Sheets for $129: These brushed cotton sheets were a little scratchy compared to other options. —Nena Farrell, WIRED, 10 Mar. 2025

These drops are perfect for those who want something gentle and effective for a mild cough or scratchy throat. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025

Like linen, hemp is a strong fiber that can be a little bit scratchy. —Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for scratchy

• catchy
• patchy
• apache
• malachi

Kids Definition

scratchy

adjective

ˈskrach-ē 

scratchier; scratchiest

1

: likely to scratch or make sore or raw : prickly

scratchy woolens

2

: making a scratching noise

3

: marked or made with scratches

a scratchy surface

scratchy handwriting

4

: uneven in quality : ragged

played a scratchy game of golf

5

: somewhat sore

a scratchy throat

scratchiness noun