Scarify
verb
To make small cuts or scratches on the outer surface.
The farmer was taught to scarify the seeds before planting them, to help them germinate faster.
Often appears as...
- scarify the seeds
- scarify the skin
verb
To break up the surface of soil or pavement.
I had to scarify my lawn to get rid of the thick layer of thatch.
Often appears as...
- scarify the lawn
- scarify the pavement
Usage tips
Technical
verb
To weaken or distress mentally or morally.
The events of the night scarified his mind, leaving him in a state of shock.
Often appears as...
- scarify the conscience
- scarify the spirit
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To make small cuts or scratches on the outer surface.
The farmer was taught to scarify the seeds before planting them, to help them germinate faster.
Often appears as...
- scarify the seeds
- scarify the skin
verb
To break up the surface of soil or pavement.
I had to scarify my lawn to get rid of the thick layer of thatch.
Often appears as...
- scarify the lawn
- scarify the pavement
Usage tips
Technical
verb
To weaken or distress mentally or morally.
The events of the night scarified his mind, leaving him in a state of shock.
Often appears as...
- scarify the conscience
- scarify the spirit
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Agricultural Technique
Used to describe the practice of preparing seeds or soil in farming for quicker growth or better absorption.
Remember to scarify the seed coat before you plant the beans.
Pro Tip 2/2Surface Preparation
Involves scratching surfaces for better adhesion of paint, glues, or to foster growth.
We'll need to scarify the wood before applying the varnish.
Compare with
abradecutinciselaceratemutilatescrapescratchwound
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