scraps

word · lemma: scrap

/ˈskɹæps/
/skɹˈæps/

Definition

Small pieces left over from something larger, especially bits of food that are not eaten, or tiny pieces of material like paper or metal.

Usage & Nuances

Mostly plural; commonly used with food ('food scraps', 'table scraps'), but also for pieces of material ('metal scraps', 'paper scraps'). Informal contexts; don't confuse with 'scrap' as a single fight or argument. Often collocated with 'leftover', 'feed the scraps', 'throw away scraps'.

Example Sentences

Please put the scraps in the trash can.

basic

The dog ate the scraps from the table.

basic

She made a collage from paper scraps.

basic

Do you want to save these scraps for the compost?

natural

After lunch, there were just a few scraps left on everyone's plates.

natural

He collects metal scraps and sells them to recycling centers.

natural