scarify
/ˈskɛrɪfaɪ/
verb
- To make shallow cuts or scratches in the surface of something, especially soil or seeds, to help growth or germination.
- Before planting, you should scarify the seeds to help them absorb water.
- The gardener used a rake to scarify the lawn and remove dead grass.
- We scarify the soil each spring to improve drainage and aeration.
- To make small cuts in the skin as part of a medical procedure or traditional practice.
- The nurse will scarify your arm before giving the allergy test.
- In some cultures, healers scarify the skin to release bad blood.
- The doctor had to scarify the area around the wound to apply the vaccine.
- To criticize or wound someone harshly with words.
- His sarcastic comments scarified everyone in the room.
- She scarified her opponent with a series of sharp remarks during the debate.
- The critic's review scarified the young author's reputation.
Antonyms