SFGate: Scarification: The simple seed-starting trick that helps tough-coated seeds sprout faster I’m currently dusting off my seed-starting supplies and sorting through seed packets from years past. Seed starting is an annual ritual for many gardeners, but if you’re new to the party, it would be ... The first scarify appeared in English in the 15th century with the meaning "to make scratches or cuts in" and later developed a figurative application of "cutting" someone emotionally.

Context Explanation

This word is ultimately derived from a Greek verb meaning "to scratch an outline." Scarifying and dethatching are both useful tasks that can improve the health and overall condition of your lawn, but its important to know the differences between them so you can use the right one, at the right time. Should I Scarify or Dethatch My Lawn? When to Use Each Method scarify verb (CUT) [ T ] to make small cuts in someone's skin, especially for cultural reasons: scarify (ˈskɛərɪˌfaɪ) vb, -fies, -fying or -fied (tr) informal to make scared; frighten [C18: from scare + -ify] scarify Other forms: scarified; scarifying; scarifies Definitions of scarify verb puncture and scar (the skin), as for purposes or tribal identification or rituals “The men in some African tribes scarify their faces”