scuff

Scuff is a term used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, to scuff means to rub, scrape, or brush against a surface, causing a dullness or a superficial abrasion. As a noun, a scuff refers to the mark or area produced by such rubbing, or to the act of scuffing itself. Scuffs are typically surface-level and do not imply deep penetration or structural damage, distinguishing them from deeper scratches.

Scuff marks occur on a wide range of materials, including footwear, floors, walls, cars, and plastic items. In footwear, scuffs appear on leather, suede, or synthetic uppers and can often be reduced or removed with specific methods: suede can be treated with a suede eraser or soft brush, leather with conditioner or polish, and patent leather with a gentle wipe. For floors, scuffs can usually be lifted with a damp cloth and mild cleaner, or with a specialized floor polish for tougher marks. On cars or other painted surfaces, scuffs are commonly addressed with polishing compounds, rubbing compounds, or wax; deeper scuffs may require touch-up paint or professional refinishing.

The term has also entered modern slang, especially in gaming and online communities, where “scuffed” describes something that is poorly executed, malfunctioning, or of lower quality than expected.

Etymology is uncertain; the word dates from the early modern period and has long been used to describe roughened or rubbed surfaces. In everyday use, scuff chiefly conveys superficial wear rather than a deep scratch.