hopscotch
UK[ˈhɒpˌskɒtʃ]US[ˈhɑːpˌskɑːtʃ]
n
a children's game in which players hop over lines drawn on the ground to pick up a small object.
Etymology
the game's name is a direct compound of two english words describing its action. 'hop' refers to the primary movement of jumping on one foot. 'scotch' is an old term for a line or scratch, referring to the pattern marked on the ground. the name 'hopscotch' thus literally means "to hop over lines." the game itself is ancient, with roots tracing back to roman children's games, but the english name emerged in the 17th century, perfectly capturing the core mechanics in its compound form.
Analysis
the word is a compound formed from two english words, 'hop' and 'scotch'. 'hop' is from old english 'hoppian' (to leap, dance). 'scotch' in this context is an obsolete term meaning a scratch, line, or score, from middle english 'scocchen' (to cut, score).
Examples
the children spent the afternoon drawing a hopscotch grid with chalk on the pavement.
she skillfully tossed the stone and hopped through the hopscotch course without losing her balance.
the classic playground game of hopscotch helps develop balance and coordination.