The word "scraggy" is spelled with a "c" followed by "raggy" and pronounced /ˈskræɡi/. The "s" sound in the beginning is spelled with a "c" because it comes before the consonant cluster "gr" which would be difficult to pronounce with an "s" sound. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as a short "a" sound, and the "y" in the second syllable represents the final consonant sound /i/. "Scraggy" means thin, bony or unkempt in appearance.
Scraggy is an adjective commonly used to describe something or someone that is thin, bony, or gaunt in appearance. It is often associated with a lack of proper nourishment or a general state of neglect.
When referring to a person, scraggy typically relates to their physique, characterizing them as skinny or underweight. This term suggests that the individual may appear unhealthy, with protruding bones or angles, due to inadequate food or poor nutrition. It may also be used to describe a person who lacks muscle tone or has a frail appearance.
In relation to objects or animals, scraggy usually implies a similar sense of thinness or emaciation. It can describe a plant that is spindly or withered, lacking vitality or adequate nutrients for proper growth. Additionally, it may be used to depict an animal that appears weak or malnourished, emphasizing a poor physical state.
The term scraggy often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of health or well-being. It frequently denotes a sense of unattractiveness or decrepitude. Given this definition, one may think of an image of a neglected person, emaciated animal, or a sickly plant, invoking associations of frailty, starvation, or poor condition.
Lean and bony; rough; an irregular broken surface, as a scraggy hill; lean; rugged.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word scraggy originated from the Middle English term scraggy, meaning lean or meager. It further traces back to the Old Norse word skraggi, meaning lean or thin (of meat).