# scratch vs screech

> English confusable word pair

## The two words

### scratch
*verb · IPA /skɹæt͡ʃ/ · frequency rank #5,547*
To rub a surface with a sharp object, especially by a living creature to remove itching with nails, claws, etc.

### screech
*noun · IPA /skɹiːt͡ʃ/ · frequency rank #33,837*
A high-pitched strident or piercing sound, such as that between a moving object and any surface.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/vs/scratch-vs-screech