scamper

1 of 2

verb

scam·​per ˈskam-pər How to pronounce scamper (audio)
scampered; scampering ˈskam-p(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce scamper (audio)
Synonyms of scamper

intransitive verb

: to run nimbly and usually playfully about

scamper

2 of 2

noun

: a playful or hurried run or movement

Synonyms of scamper

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Verb

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Examples of scamper in a Sentence

Verb The kids were scampering around the yard. A mouse scampered across the floor.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
The thick canvas means the space is a little dark—take your book outside onto the deck with a coffee instead and keep an eye out for dassies (rock hyraxes) scampering around the rocks. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Oct. 2026 Nearby, roosters scampered along the edge of Cuba Memorial Boulevard Park. — Daniel Castro, New Yorker, 17 Oct. 2026
Noun
Cam Skattebo had a 16-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter and his 42-yard scamper to set up Singletary’s game-winning run. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 Against the Aggies, Roberts had seven explosive runs, including a 54-yard touchdown scamper on his final carry. — Pj Green october 10, Kansas City Star, 10 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for scamper

Word History

Etymology

Verb

probably from obsolete Dutch schampen to flee, from Middle French escamper, from Italian scampare, from Vulgar Latin *excampare to decamp, from Latin ex- + campus field

First Known Use

Verb

1685, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scamper was in 1685

Rhymes for scamper

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Browse Nearby Words

scamp
scamper
scamperer
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Cite this Entry

“Scamper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scamper. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

scamper

verb
scam·​per
ˈskam-pər
scampered; scampering
-p(ə-)riŋ
: to run lightly and usually playfully about
scamper noun
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