scattering — The action of distributing or spreading things over a wide area in an irregular way. The process of dispersing or going in different directions from a central point.
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: The action of distributing or spreading things over a wide area in an irregular way. The process of dispersing or going in different directions from a central point.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈskætərɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- After the teacher announced a pop quiz, there was a scattering of groans throughout the classroom.
- The scattering of stars across the night sky looked like diamonds on black velvet.
- My attempts at organizing were ruined by the scattering of my cat across my neat pile of papers.
scattering
NOUN[/ˈskætərɪŋ/]
The action of distributing or spreading things over a wide area in an irregular way. The process of dispersing or going in different directions from a central point.

The action of distributing or spreading things over a wide area in an irregular way. The process of dispersing or going in different directions from a central point.

The fireworks scattered sparks across the night sky like glowing stars. (SKY + throw → to scatter is to throw things outward across space like pieces spreading through the SKY)

The impact caused the glass to scatter and shatter — proving how fragile the smallest details can matter.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English 'scatter', which came from Old Norse 'skatra' meaning 'to strew or sprinkle'. The word originally described the action of farmers spreading seeds across a field by hand.
Breakdown
scatter (base verb meaning 'to spread widely') + -ing (suffix forming nouns or present participles)
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“After the teacher announced a pop quiz, there was a scattering of groans throughout the classroom.”
“The scattering of stars across the night sky looked like diamonds on black velvet.”
“My attempts at organizing were ruined by the scattering of my cat across my neat pile of papers.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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