Pronunciation: [skɹˈɔːni] (IPA) 
The word "scrawny" is spelled with an "s", followed by a "c", then "r", "a", "w", "n", and "y". The IPA transcription of this word is /ˈskrɔːni/. The "s" sound is unvoiced and sounds like "ssss", while the "c" sounds like "k" due to being followed by an "r". The "aw" sound is spelled with just an "a", and the "ny" sound is spelled with just a "n" and a "y". Overall, the spelling of "scrawny" follows typical English language patterns.
Scrawny is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is unusually thin, frail, and lacking in muscle or fleshiness. It typically suggests a lack of proper or healthy nutrition, leading to a skeletal or emaciated appearance. When applied to individuals, it implies a physical condition where one's body appears undeveloped or poorly nourished, often characterized by prominent bones and little muscle mass.
The term scrawny is commonly used to describe people, especially children or teenagers, who appear unhealthily thin. It emphasizes their emaciated physique, highlighting the lack of physical bulk or strength. The word may also be used colloquially to describe animals, particularly when referring to the malnourished or neglected state of a pet or livestock. It conveys the idea of weakness and fragility due to poor diet and/or inadequate care.
While scrawny generally carries a negative connotation regarding the physical appearance, it does not necessarily imply any negative qualities in the individual's character or personality. It solely focuses on the slimness or gauntness of their physique, without any judgment on their inherent worth or abilities. However, it is important to be cautious when using this term, as it can be considered derogatory or offensive by some, particularly if used to belittle or ridicule someone based on their body size or shape.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "scrawny" is believed to have originated in the early 18th century from the combination of the words "scrennan" in Gaelic and "sclim" in Irish, both of which mean "thin" or "lean". The term gradually made its way into the English language, retaining its original meaning of being excessively thin or meager.
