scramble
/ˈskɹæmbl̩/ · scram·ble
noun
- A rush or hurry, especially making use of the limbs against a surface. The crowd made a last-minute scramble to the finish line.
- An emergency defensive air force mission to intercept attacking enemy aircraft. The air force launched a scramble to counter the incoming enemy planes.
- A motocross race. The motocross event was a thrilling scramble through the muddy terrain.
verb
- To move hurriedly to a location, especially by using all limbs against a surface. The hikers scrambled up the steep mountain slope.
- To proceed to a location or an objective in a disorderly manner. The team scrambled to meet the tight deadline.
- To thoroughly combine and cook as a loose mass, especially food ingredients including egg. I scrambled some eggs with spinach and cheese.
interjection
- Shouted when something desirable is thrown into a group of people who individually want that item, causing them to rush for it. Everyone shouted 'scramble!' when the free tickets were announced.
Did you know? The phrase 'scramble for' is often used to describe a situation where people rush to grab something, such as a limited resource or an opportunity, often in a chaotic and disorderly manner.