scurry

[skur-ee, skuhr-ee]

verb (used without object)

scurried, scurrying 

1. to go or move quickly or in haste.

verb (used with object)

scurried, scurrying 

1. to send hurrying along.

noun

plural

scurries 

1. a scurrying rush.

   the scurry of little feet on the stairs.

2. a short run or race.

scurry

/ ˈskʌrɪ /

verb

1. to move about or proceed hurriedly

2. (intr) to whirl about

noun

1. the act or sound of scurrying

2. a brisk light whirling movement, as of snow

3. horse racing a short race or sprint

Word History and Origins

Origin of scurry¹

First recorded in 1800–10; extracted from hurry-scurry

Word History and Origins

Origin of scurry¹

C19: probably shortened from hurry-scurry

Example Sentences

They drove off, giving one last look at the plane as the ground crew scurried around, readying it for the next day’s drop.

From Los Angeles Times

Scanning the defense for a weakness, Iamaleava scurried up the middle for a touchdown, making the right decision on what appeared to be a run-pass option play.

From Los Angeles Times

The home side were the happier to scurry to the dressing room.

From BBC

Defendants will come under greater pressure to forestall lawsuits by scurrying to reach licensing deals with writers, musicians and artists.

From Los Angeles Times

We've come a long way since the announcement of Johnny Sexton as part of the coaching ticket had people scurrying around wondering if this meant curtains for Russell.

From BBC

Related Words

• bustle 
• dart 
• dash 
• hurry 
• rip 
• scamper 
• scoot 
• scuttle 
• sprint 
• whisk 
• zip