Scuff

To scrape or drag one's feet along a surface, often causing a scraping sound and leaving a mark or wear. It can also mean to mar or scratch the surface of something, or to treat someone badly or disrespectfully. The action can apply to shoes, objects, or even a person's reputation. The impact is typically superficial but can indicate carelessness, misuse, or damage. The term subtly captures the act of causing minor harm through friction or contact. It speaks to an unintentional act of damage or an action that results in a minor alteration to the surface.

Scuff meaning with examples

• He was walking along, lost in thought, and accidentally scuffed his new shoes against the curb, leaving a visible mark that annoyed him. He immediately regretted not paying closer attention. The fresh scuff marred the otherwise perfect shine, highlighting his momentary lapse of awareness.
• The worn wooden floor showed countless scuffs from years of foot traffic and furniture movement. Each mark told a silent story of life within the old house. These imperfections, a collection of scuffs, were evidence of a shared history and daily activity within the space.
• During the argument, she felt her reputation had been scuffed by his careless accusations. Her integrity, painstakingly built over years, was threatened. It felt like her hard work had been disrespected and her professional standing had taken a hit from the careless scuffing of his words.
• The delivery person scuffed the box as they maneuvered it through the narrow doorway, resulting in a slight tear in the cardboard. Inside was something fragile. The scuff was more than cosmetic, it made the delivery slightly more worrisome.
• The artist used his finger to scuff the wet paint on the canvas, creating a textured effect. He was deliberately aiming for an imperfect, somewhat worn look. The controlled scuff added depth and character, the planned effect contrasting with the unintentional nature of typical scuffing.