v.1. To remove something or an outer layer of something by lightly scraping: I scratched off the paint that had dripped on the table. The mud on my shoes dried up, so I scratched it off. I scratched off the lottery ticket with a coin.
2. To remove someone or something from a list or record: I decided not to sign up for the team, so the coach scratched off my name from the list. We don't need any pickles, so you can scratch that off the shopping list.
3. To write or draw something hurriedly: After the party I scratched off a thank-you note. It's a very old essay—I scratched it off when I was in middle school.