Scamper: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：run quickly and lightly (scamper)

scamper 🔊

/ˈskæmpər/

vi.

To run quickly and lightly, often in a playful or excited way, like a small animal or a happy child.

Scamper definition illustrated by playful animals running lightly across a field

run quickly and lightly 🔊

➕

/rʌn ˈkwɪkli ənd ˈlaɪtli/

vi.

To move with swift, light steps, typically in a playful or excited manner, resembling the behavior of small animals or happy children.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Italian 'scampare' (to escape), via French 'escamper', meaning to run away lightly.

💡 Mnemonic

SCAMper: Squirrels Chase And Move Playfully, Energetically Running.

📖 Example

When the ball rolled into the garden, the puppy scampered after it with joyful barks. 🔊 When the ball rolled into the garden, the puppy ran quickly and lightly after it with joyful barks.

🔗 Collocations

scamper off – to run away quickly and playfully

scamper about – to run around in a light and excited manner

scamper after – to run swiftly in pursuit of something

🔄 Synonyms

dart (vi.) – to move suddenly and swiftly

scurry (vi.) – to move hurriedly with short, quick steps

frolic (vi.) – to play and move about cheerfully and energetically

🚫 Antonyms

plod (vi.) – to walk slowly and heavily

trudge (vi.) – to walk slowly with heavy steps, as if tired

amble (vi.) – to walk at a slow, relaxed pace

📖 Cultural Story

Scamper originates from Italian 'scampare' (to escape), entering English via French. It evolved to describe light, playful running, commonly used for small animals or children in joyful motion.