Scrambling

Scrambling describes a hurried, often competitive, and sometimes urgent action or movement. It can involve physical effort to climb or move over uneven terrain, a mental rush to solve a problem, or a desperate attempt to secure something, whether it be resources, position, or information. The intensity and purposefulness of the movement are key to its meaning. The term often carries a connotation of improvisation, resourcefulness, and sometimes, a degree of disorganization. It may suggest that the subject is under pressure or struggling, striving toward a goal. The resulting movement may or may not be graceful or successful, but the determination to overcome obstacles is usually inherent. The 'scramble' suggests a degree of urgency and competitive intent, implying a lack of resources or time, and the necessity for immediate and often aggressive action. It can be physical or a figurative response, and in the modern world, it is common to describe information being scrambled in times of national security.

Scrambling meaning with examples

• The hikers were scrambling up the steep, rocky incline, using their hands to find handholds as they ascended. Their pace was rapid, and they were focused on reaching the summit before the approaching storm hit. Each one was focused on their personal goal with the threat of harsh weather looming.
• When the fire alarm went off, students scrambled out of the building in a panic. Everyone was rushing to exit, pushing and shoving in the narrow hallways in order to avoid smoke inhalation or getting trampled by the other panic stricken people.
• The company was scrambling to secure funding before the deadline, making last-minute calls to investors and preparing revised business plans. If they didn't have the funds, then the company would be shutting its doors for good and the employees would lose their jobs.
• After the surprise announcement, journalists scrambled to get information, contacting sources and trying to understand the implications of the new policy. They needed to provide their audience with news before everyone else did.
• The cryptographers are scrambling the sensitive government communications using complex algorithms to ensure the messages are indecipherable to any unauthorized parties. This is done to protect national security.