scrawl
UK[skrɔːl]US[skrɔːl]
v
to write something quickly and carelessly, making it difficult to read.
n
untidy or careless handwriting.
Etymology
the word 'scrawl' emerged in english during the late 16th century. its exact origin is uncertain, but it is believed to be an expressive, imitative formation, possibly related to the word 'crawl', suggesting the slow, sprawling, or irregular movement of a pen across a page. another theory connects it to the middle dutch word 'schraelen', meaning 'to scratch'. over time, it evolved from describing the physical action to specifically denoting the poor-quality handwriting that results from such a hasty, careless action.
Analysis
this word is considered a simplex form. it is likely an onomatopoeic or expressive formation, imitating the sound or action of hasty, scratching writing.
Examples
he scrawled a quick note on a napkin before rushing out.
i can't make out this doctor's scrawl on the prescription.
someone had scrawled graffiti across the wall.