scab - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scab Word Meanings
- A crust that forms on a wound as it heals.
- A person who works while others are on strike; a strikebreaker.
- To scab over: a wound or sore forms a crust during healing.
scab Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scab Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skæb/
US
/skæb/
scab Word Etymology
a) Root decomposition: base form is scab; no prefix; plural formed with -s (scabs). b) Historical origin: from Old English sceab, from Proto-Germanic *skabb-; cognate with other Germanic languages; the labor-sense related to strikebreakers arose in 19th-century English as a metaphor from the wound crust. c) Memory image: imagine a rough crust on a healing wound that acts like a small shield guarding the wound.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Scab can refer to the crust that forms on a healing wound, either a small crust or a thick scab. It can also mean a person who crosses a picket line to work during a strike (a strikebreaker). The phrasal verb to scab over describes a wound or sore crusting as it heals. In everyday English, the strikebreaker sense is informal and can be insulting, so use with care. The medical sense is neutral. Common contexts include describing a wound, discussing labor disputes, or talking about something that settles or hardens into a crust. Note the noun plural is scabs, and the verb phrase scab over is used with a subject that heals.
Usage Reminders
- Get context: three senses; plural scabs; scab over; not same as crust; strikebreaker sense is insulting in some contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Scab is only a crust on a wound; there is also a social meaning for strikebreakers.
- The strikebreaker sense is universally polite to use in all English-speaking places.
- Scab over means the same as hardening a surface other than a wound.
- Scab is always negative when referring to people.
- The plural form is irregular.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, scab blends medical and social senses. The strikebreaker meaning is historical and pejorative, so learners must infer tone from context and avoid casual use in formal settings.
Learning Tips
- Learn both noun senses (wound crust vs strikebreaker) and their common collocations.
- Practice phrases: get a scab, pick at a scab, scab over in medical contexts.
- Notice tone: strikebreaker is informal and often pejorative; reserve for casual speech.
- Differentiate crust synonyms: scab vs crust vs scurf in medical writing.
- Pronunciation: scab rhymes with grab; stress first syllable.
- Create quick context sentences to reinforce usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'scab'?
A.A method of painting
B.A type of bird
C.A crust that forms over a healing wound
D.A kind of fabric
Step 2: Usage
Choose a sentence that uses the word 'scab' correctly.
A.After the injury, a scab formed on his knee.
B.The kitten played with a scab on the floor.
C.She wore a beautiful scab dress to the party.
D.He was a scab when he joined the team.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'scab'?
A.Wound
B.Cloak
C.Bandage
D.Shield
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'scab'?
A.Healing
B.Injury
C.Pain
D.Cut
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where one might see a scab?
A.A person gets a small cut on their hand while cooking.
B.A child shows off a new toy to friends.
C.Someone enjoys painting landscapes outside.
D.A runner celebrates after finishing a race.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App