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scab
2 dictionary results for: Scabbing
Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) - Cite This Source - Share This
scab       [skab] Pronunciation Key noun, verb, scabbed, scab·bing.
–noun
1.the incrustation that forms over a sore or wound during healing.
2.Veterinary Pathology. a mangy disease in animals, esp. sheep; scabies. Compare itch (def. 10).
3.Plant Pathology.
a.a disease of plants characterized by crustlike lesions on the affected parts and caused by a fungus or bacterium.
b.one of these crustlike lesions.
4.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.
5.Slang. a rascal or scoundrel.
6.Metallurgy.
a.a projection or roughness on an ingot or casting from a defective mold.
b.a surface defect on an iron or steel piece resulting from the rolling in of scale.
7.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)
8.to become covered with a scab.
9.to act or work as a scab.
[Origin: 1200–50; 1800–10 for def. 4; ME < ON skabb scab, itch; cf. shabby, shave]

—Related forms
scablike, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006.
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American Heritage Dictionary - Cite This Source - Share This
scab       (skāb)  Pronunciation Key 
n.  
  1. A crust discharged from and covering a healing wound.
  2. Scabies or mange in domestic animals or livestock, especially sheep.
    1. Any of various plant diseases caused by fungi or bacteria and resulting in crustlike spots on fruit, leaves, or roots.
    2. The spots caused by such a disease.
    3. A worker who refuses membership in a labor union.
    4. An employee who works while others are on strike; a strikebreaker.
    5. A person hired to replace a striking worker.
  4. Slang A person regarded as contemptible.
    1. A worker who refuses membership in a labor union.
    2. An employee who works while others are on strike; a strikebreaker.
    3. A person hired to replace a striking worker.

intr.v.   scabbed, scab·bing, scabs
  1. To become covered with scabs or a scab.
  2. To work or take a job as a scab.


[Middle English, from Old Norse skabb.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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