Definition

1. Noun:
   • A hand tool for scraping: A scraper is a tool designed to remove material from a surface by a pushing or pulling action, typically to clean, smooth, or shape it.
   • A person or device that scrapes: Less commonly, a scraper can refer to a person who performs the action of scraping or a mechanical device designed for that purpose.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • He used a paint scraper to remove the old varnish from the door.
  • Archaeologists carefully used a small scraper to clean the ancient artifact.
  • The ice scraper is essential for clearing the windshield in winter.

Advanced Usage

• "Web scraper": A specialized software tool or bot that extracts data from websites. (Note: This is a compound term listed here as advanced usage).
  • The company uses a web scraper to collect pricing information from competitors' sites.

Variants and Related Words

• Scrape (verb): To move a hard or sharp edge across a surface to remove something.
  • You need to scrape the mud off your boots before coming inside.
• Scraping (noun): The action or sound of scraping; also, a small amount removed by scraping.
  • I heard the scraping of a chair on the floor.

Synonyms

• Scratcher: A tool for scratching or scraping lightly.
• Shave hook: A specific type of scraper used in plumbing or for removing paint.
• Putty knife: A flexible blade tool often used as a scraper.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Scrape by/through: To just barely manage to succeed or survive, often with difficulty. (Note: This uses the verb 'scrape', not the noun 'scraper').
  • They had to scrape by on a very small income.
• Scrape together/up: To gather or collect something, especially money, with difficulty.
  • We managed to scrape together enough cash for the tickets.

Related Idioms

• "Bow and scrape": To behave in an excessively obedient or servile way. (Note: This idiom uses the verb 'scrape').
  • He was tired of having to bow and scrape to his arrogant boss.

Noun

1. any of various hand tools for scraping