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# old scratch

noun phrase (Old Scratch; a name, capital letters)

«old scratch» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

(euphemism, old-fashioned) the Devil.

### In the lessons

An old nickname for the Devil used in folk tales and old American stories, to avoid saying his name. Old-fashioned register, mainly USA.

### Examples

- In the old tale, a farmer made a deal with Old Scratch.
- Grandpa said the mule was as stubborn as Old Scratch.
- They told stories of Old Scratch around the campfire.
- «Old Scratch» is a folk name for the Devil.
- He fought like Old Scratch himself.
- The preacher warned the town about Old Scratch.

### Note

It is a name, so capitals. It is not about scratching. Plain word: the Devil.