scrag

[ skrag ]

noun

1. a lean or scrawny person or animal.
2. the lean end of a neck of veal or mutton.
3. Slang. the neck of a human being.

verb (used with object)

, scragged, scrag·ging.

1. Slang. to wring the neck of; hang; garrote.
2. Metallurgy. to test (spring steel) by bending.

scrag

/ skræɡ /

noun

1. a thin or scrawny person or animal
2. the lean end of a neck of veal or mutton
3. informal.
   the neck of a human being

verb

1. informal.
   to wring the neck of; throttle

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrag¹

First recorded in 1535–45; obscurely akin to crag ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrag¹

C16: perhaps variant of crag ; related to Norwegian skragg, German Kragen collar

Example Sentences

“Do you know, Jane, I have your little pearl necklace at this moment fastened round my bronze scrag under my cravat? I have worn it since the day I lost my only treasure, as a memento of her.”

From Literature

Normally, by July, the mail boat that serves six of the small and rugged islands of northern Penobscot Bay — Barred, Butter, Eagle, Bear, Scrag and Great Spruce Head — would be weighed down with letters and packages, plus a dozen or so passengers at $25 per ride.

From New York Times

Ravinder Bhogal of Jikoni, London “I cook scrag end of mutton slowly overnight with warming spices like cinnamon and black cardamom, then top it with a thick layer of spice-infused creamy mash - enough to insulate an igloo – to make scrag end pie.”

From The Guardian

Their unique classical chamber music concert series, Scrag Mountain Music, presented its first concert in January 2011, and a loyal audience has been growing ever since.

From Washington Times

Scrag Mountain has become successful enough to hire a professional administrator.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• execute
• hoist
• stretch
• swing