Pronunciation: [skˈe͡əkɹə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "scarecrow" is spelled with a silent "e" at the end. The IPA transcription for this word is /ˈskɛər.kroʊ/. The "ea" in "scare" is pronounced as "eh" and the "ow" in "crow" is pronounced as "oh". The "r" is also pronounced, making it a bit tricky for non-native speakers to spell. The word originated from the combination of "scare" and "crow" since scarecrows were initially used to scare crows away from crops.
A scarecrow is a contraption or figure typically made of old clothes or straw, designed to deter birds or other animals from damaging crops or gardens. Its primary purpose is to frighten and intimidate wildlife, hence the name "scarecrow." Scarecrows are commonly depicted as human-like figures, equipped with a head, torso, arms, and sometimes legs, closely imitating the appearance of a person. The head often has a face or a mask, usually painted or fixed with buttons or other scraps, intended to resemble human features.
Scarecrows are strategically positioned within fields or gardens where crops are vulnerable to animals such as birds, rabbits, or deer. When the wind blows, they sway and move, creating an illusion of a living entity scaring away potential threats. Additionally, scarecrows are sometimes dressed in colorful or reflective garments to ensure visibility and enhance their efficiency as deterrents. While scarecrows traditionally stand in fields, they also find a place in festive decor, often used as decorations during autumn and Halloween celebrations.
In a metaphorical sense, the term "scarecrow" can be used to describe a person or thing that appears intimidating at first glance but lacks substance or poses no real threat. It symbolizes an object or individual that is intended to deter or intimidate, but ultimately lacks the power or effectiveness to do so.
Anything set up in a field or garden to frighten away birds; any vain terror.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "scarecrow" originated in the late 15th century in Middle English as a compound word formed by combining the words "scare" and "crow".
The term "scare" comes from the Old English word "scearian", which means "to frighten" or "to scare".
The term "crow" refers to the bird commonly known as "crow", which is a large, black bird known for scavenging crops and causing damage to farmland.
Thus, when combined, "scarecrow" literally means an object or device used to scare or frighten away crows from crops and fields. Scarecrows are traditionally made to resemble humans, with the hope that their presence will deter the birds from landing and causing harm.
