Pronunciation: [skˈampəd] (IPA) 
The word "scampered" is spelled with a /sk/ sound at the beginning, followed by the vowels /æ/ and /ɪ/, which are pronounced as "a" and "i" respectively. The consonant cluster /mp/ follows, before the word ends with the vowel /əd/, pronounced as a schwa sound. This word means to run, hop or skip in a playful or hurried way. It is commonly used to describe the movement of small animals, such as rabbits or squirrels.
Scampered is a verb that refers to the act of moving or running quickly with small, light steps. It is often used to describe the playful, energetic, or hurried movements of animals or young children. When someone scampered, they move in a lively and agile manner, typically with a sense of excitement or urgency.
The term originated from the Old Norse word "skemma," which means to skip or make short steps. Scampering usually involves short bursts of movement, where someone or something moves rapidly and effortlessly. It conveys a sense of nimbleness and liveliness, often associated with the natural movements of animals.
Scampered can also imply a sense of mischievousness or playfulness. It is often used to depict the quick movements of small animals, such as squirrels, rabbits, or mice, as they dart around in a hurried and unpredictable manner. Additionally, children often scamper when they are excited, joyful, or eager to explore their surroundings.
In summary, scampered is a descriptive verb used to depict the quick, light, and lively movements of animals or children. Whether it is used to portray the energetic movements of animals playing, a child running away in a game of tag, or someone moving quickly and agilely, the term conveys a sense of speed, agility, excitement, or mischief.
The word "scampered" is derived from the Middle English term "skamperen" which meant to move quickly and lightly. This Middle English term itself could be traced back to the Middle Dutch word "schamperen" which had a similar meaning of moving nimbly or skipping. It is believed that the Middle Dutch term likely originated from the Old Norse word "skemma", meaning to run away or escape. Over time, "scamper" evolved in English to refer specifically to the quick and playful movements of small animals, particularly rabbits or squirrels.
