scrannel

[ skran-l ]

adjective

, Archaic.

1. thin or slight.
2. squeaky or unmelodious.

scrannel

/ ˈskrænəl /

adjective

1. thin
2. harsh

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrannel¹

First recorded in 1630–40; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrannel¹

C17: probably from Norwegian skran lean. Compare scrawny

Example Sentences

They are sped; And when they list, their lean and flashy songs Grate on their scrannel pipes of wretched straw; The hungry sheep look up, and are not fed, But, swoln with wind, and the rank mist they draw, Rot inwardly, and foul contagion spread; Besides what the grim wolf with privy paw Daily devours apace, and nothing said.'

From Project Gutenberg

These lines are certainly less amazing than the scrannel piping of his usual anap�sts; but few will hold them to be 'of their own arduous fullness reverent'!

From Project Gutenberg

What is Religion?—Word of many creeds Blared forth in streets by solemn Pharisee, And piped in doleful tones on scrannel reeds, Untouched by love or tender sympathy That moves the soldier where the Master bleeds?

From Project Gutenberg

The shell they struck gave a more melodious sound than the rough and scrannel pipe cut from the northern forests.

From Project Gutenberg

Send us no groats nor scrannel seed nor rye, But good fat ears of grain, Which shall endure our strain, And be of sturdy stuff.

From Project Gutenberg