Definition of the word scribble

The origins of the word "scribble" can be traced back to the Middle English "shry Kenya," which was a term for sloppy handwriting or careless markings. This phrase eventually evolved into "shreble" and "shryvel" in early Modern English, both meaning "to write poorly" or "to write carelessly." The modern form of the word, "scribble," first appeared in the mid-17th century, derived from the earlier French word "escrire brousse," which literally translates to "write thickly" or "write heavily." The term was adopted into English and originally referred specifically to heavy or thick writing strokes. Over time, the meaning of "scribble" broadened to encompass any careless, hasty, or messy writing or drawing. Today, it can also be used as a verb to describe the act of making such marks or writings, or as a noun to refer to the resulting product. So, whether you're scribbling quickly to jot down an idea or deliberately creating intentional, jagged strokes as a form of art, you're carrying on the legacy of this dynamic word and its fascinating history.