scrappy

¹

[ skrap-ee ]

adjective

, scrap·pi·er, scrap·pi·est.

1. made up of scraps scrap or of odds and ends; fragmentary; disconnected.

scrappy

²

[ skrap-ee ]

adjective

, scrap·pi·er, scrap·pi·est.

1. inclined to fight, argue, or compete; aggressive: Having to defend itself against a giant corporation gave the new company a reputation as a scrappy contender.

   Badgers are such scrappy fighters that coyotes will team up with them out of fear of being eaten by them.

   Having to defend itself against a giant corporation gave the new company a reputation as a scrappy contender.

2. having or showing spirit and determination, especially in spite of obstacles:

   This era formed dozens of legends—strong-willed, scrappy survivors whose faith in their cause was unshakable.

scrappy

¹

/ ˈskræpɪ /

adjective

1. informal.
   pugnacious

scrappy

²

/ ˈskræpɪ /

adjective

1. fragmentary; disjointed

Derived Forms

• ˈscrappily, adverb
• ˈscrappiness, noun

Other Words From

• scrappi·ly adverb
• scrappi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrappy¹

First recorded in 1830–40; scrap ¹ + -y ¹

Origin of scrappy²

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95; scrap ² + -y ¹

Example Sentences

Thomas’ fellow Wyoming instructor Erin Lindt gives so much of her soul to her scrappy class of economically disadvantaged kids that it takes a toll on her marriage.

From Salon

He ends with a wry joke, revealing a flash of the scrappy, mischievous teen with big dreams of starting a punk band with his best friends.

From Los Angeles Times

That proved to be the only score of a hard-fought and sometimes scrappy second half as Canada ran out the victors.

From BBC

They did, however, have a deep understanding of their subject and a scrappy get-it-done-no-matter-what attitude.

From Los Angeles Times

The reality is that most of Burning Man is dreamt, designed, built and paid for by its scrappy, resourceful attendees — the majority of whom are not backed by tech moguls or millionaires.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aggressive
• combative
• fierce
• ornery