scrappy

1 of 2

adjective (1)

scrap·​py ˈskra-pē How to pronounce scrappy (audio)
scrappier; scrappiest
: consisting of scraps
scrappy meals

scrappy

2 of 2

adjective (2)

scrappier; scrappiest
1
2
: having an aggressive and determined spirit : feisty

Examples of scrappy in a Sentence

Adjective (2) she was a scrappy girl despite—or, perhaps, because of—her small size a pair of scrappy movie critics who can never agree on anything
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Her roots in editorial taught her to be scrappy, resourceful, and detail-obsessed, qualities that continue to anchor her work. Essence, 18 June 2025 Alas, the team that has spent the better part of a decade playing the part of scrappy and inspiring underdog seems to be trying on a new costume: the rather boring middle-of-the-pack team. Levi Weaver, New York Times, 17 June 2025 Shay Hatten’s script doesn’t communicate the central character or her motivations well, and de Armas — who is feisty, scrappy and fun to watch — doesn’t convey the kind of sorrowful burden of vengeance that Reeves did so beautifully as John Wick. Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 7 June 2025 And showing terrific contrast as mother and daughter are the regal Victoire Charles as proud bride-to-be Jaja, and the scrappy, streetwise Jordan Rice as her daughter Marie. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for scrappy

Word History

Etymology

Adjective (1)

scrap entry 1

Adjective (2)

scrap entry 3

First Known Use

Adjective (1)

1837, in the meaning defined above

Adjective (2)

1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of scrappy was in 1837

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scrappy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scrappy. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

scrappy

adjective
scrap·​py
ˈskrap-ē
scrappier; scrappiest
1
2
: having an aggressive and determined spirit
scrappiness noun
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