WordLens

scatter

1 of 2verb
/ˈskætər/
Forms:scatters,scattering,scattered,scattered
1

to make things like items, people, particles, etc. spread out from a center and move in different directions

transitive
  • The wind scattered the autumn leaves in all directions, creating a colorful carpet on the ground.
  • The hailstorm scattered stones across the roof, causing damage to the shingles.
  • The explosion scattered debris in all directions, leaving destruction in its wake.
Synonyms:
dispeldispersedissipatebreak up
2

to disperse or break up as a group, with individuals moving away in various directions

  • As the predator approached, the herd of deer scattered into the forest, seeking cover.
  • When the thunderstorm approached, beachgoers scattered from the shoreline, seeking shelter.
  • The protesters scattered as the police advanced, attempting to avoid confrontation.
  • At the sound of gunfire, the birds scattered from the trees, fleeing to safety.
  • As the earthquake shook the ground, people scattered from buildings, fearing collapse.
Synonyms:
spread outdispersedissipate
3

to cause individuals within a group to separate and move away in various directions

transitive
  • The loud noise of the fireworks scattered the birds roosting in the trees.
  • The sudden appearance of the predator scattered the herd of grazing antelope.
  • The announcement of the impending storm scattered the beachgoers along the shore.
  • The explosion of the firecrackers scattered the children playing in the park.
  • The dog's bark scattered the group of squirrels foraging in the backyard.
Synonyms:
dispersebreak up
4

to distribute seeds or similar particles over an area by casting them in various directions

transitive
  • The farmer scattered seeds across the freshly plowed field to plant the next crop.
  • She scattered flower seeds in the garden beds to create a colorful display in the spring.
  • The landscaper scattered grass seed over the bare patches of lawn to promote growth.
  • The park ranger scattered acorns in the forest to encourage the growth of new oak trees.
5

to distribute or spread out objects, items, or particles over a surface at random or irregular intervals

transitive
  • The artist scattered rose petals across the canvas to create an abstract pattern.
  • The gardener scattered fertilizer across the lawn to promote healthy growth.
  • She scattered breadcrumbs along the forest path to attract birds and wildlife.
  • He scattered salt on the icy sidewalk to melt the ice and prevent accidents.
Synonyms:
spread outspread