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scab
[ skab ]
noun
- the incrustation that forms over a sore or wound during healing.
- Veterinary Pathology. a mangy disease in animals, especially sheep; scabies. Compare itch ( def 10 ).
- Plant Pathology.
- a disease of plants characterized by crustlike lesions on the affected parts and caused by a fungus or bacterium.
- one of these crustlike lesions.
- a worker who refuses to join a labor union or to participate in a union strike, who takes a striking worker's place on the job, or the like.
- Slang. a rascal or scoundrel.
- Metallurgy.
- a projection or roughness on an ingot or casting from a defective mold.
- a surface defect on an iron or steel piece resulting from the rolling in of scale.
- Carpentry. a short, flat piece of wood used for various purposes, as binding two timbers butted together or strengthening a timber at a weak spot.
verb (used without object)
- to become covered with a scab.
- to act or work as a scab.
scab
/ skæb /
noun
- the dried crusty surface of a healing skin wound or sore
- a contagious disease of sheep, a form of mange, caused by a mite ( Psoroptes communis )
- a fungal disease of plants characterized by crusty spots on the fruits, leaves, etc
- derogatory.
- Also calledblackleg a person who refuses to support a trade union's actions, esp one who replaces a worker who is on strike
- ( as modifier )
scab labour
- a despicable person
verb
- to become covered with a scab
- (of a road surface) to become loose so that potholes develop
- to replace a striking worker
scab
/ skăb /
- A crust that forms over a healing wound, consisting of dried blood, plasma, and other secretions.
scab
- Informally, a worker who stays on the job while others go on strike . Also, a worker brought in to keep a plant operating when its work force is on strike. ( See strikebreaker .)
Derived Forms
- ˈscabˌlike, adjective
Other Words From
- scablike adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of scab1
Word History and Origins
Origin of scab1
Example Sentences
Late last week, Baez was successful in scratching the ugly scab of Anthony family dysfunction.
The vesicles dry gradually, and between the fourteenth and twentieth days the scab falls off, leaving a pitted scar.
Across his back there was a furrow through his fur, and a long scab where a bullet had raked him.
I think the colonial surgeons call the disease the "bush scab;" and that it is occasioned by a filthy mode of life.
These continue for a short time, break, discharge their matter, and are followed by a blackish scab.
There is not the least bit of sense in belonging to a union if you are to become a "scab" when you go to the ballot-box.
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