scramble

scramble [skram′bəl]

vi.

scrambled, scrambling [< ? SCAMPER + SCRABBLE]

1. to climb, crawl, or clamber hurriedly

2. to scuffle or struggle for something, as for coins scattered on the ground

3. to struggle or rush pell-mell, as to get something highly prized [to scramble for political office]

4. to get military aircraft into the air quickly

☆ 5. Football to maneuver about in the backfield while seeking an open receiver to whom to pass the ball; also, to run with the ball if unable to find a receiver

vt.

1.

a) to throw together haphazardly; mix in a confused way; jumble

b) Electronics to modify (transmitted auditory or visual signals) so as to make unintelligible without special receiving equipment

2. to gather haphazardly; collect without method: often with up

☆ 3. to cook (eggs) while stirring the mixed whites and yolks

4. to order or get (military aircraft) into the air quickly

n.

1. a hard, hurried climb or advance, as over rough, difficult ground

2. a disorderly struggle or rush, as for something prized

3. a disorderly heap; jumble

4. a quick takeoff of military aircraft

scrambler

n.