scrum
UK[skrʌm]US[skrʌm]
n
a formation in rugby in which the forwards of each team push together with their heads down and attempt to gain possession of the ball.
n
a framework used in agile software development, emphasizing teamwork, accountability, and iterative progress toward a goal.
Etymology
the word 'scrum' is a shortened form of 'scrummage', which itself originated from the alteration of 'scrimmage'. 'Scrimmage' entered english in the late middle ages from the old french word 'eskermir', meaning 'to fence' or 'to fight'. this french term has germanic roots, likely from the frankish word 'skirmjan', meaning 'to protect' or 'to defend'. the term was adopted into rugby in the 19th century to describe the close, struggling pack of players, and its metaphorical extension to agile project management in the late 20th century captures the idea of a team working in close, coordinated effort toward a common objective.
Analysis
the word is a loanword and a shortening, treated as a simplex unit in modern english.
Examples
the referee ordered a scrum after the minor infringement.
our development team holds a daily scrum to synchronize activities.
the ball popped out unexpectedly from the side of the scrum.