Search Dictionary
Definition of scattershot

scattershot

/ˈskæt.ɚ.ʃɑːt/
scat · ter · shot
Plural:scattershots
JUMP TO:

scattershot Lexical Profile

scattershot Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Broad, random, and lacking a systematic or focused approach; covering a wide range in a disorganized or haphazard manner.

Example

"The committee criticized the agency's scattershot approach to urban renewal, urging a more targeted investment strategy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for scattershot
Antonyms
View all antonyms for scattershot

• noun

1

Ammunition consisting of a charge of small pellets that disperse widely over a broad area when fired.

Example

"Early fowling pieces were loaded with scattershot to increase the likelihood of hitting fast-moving game birds."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for scattershot

• Nearby Words

scattergun
scattering
scatterplot
scattershot
scatty
scaup
scavenge

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in mid-20th-century American English as a compound of 'scatter' and 'shot', originally referring to shotgun pellets that spread widely upon firing before being applied figuratively to broad, unsystematic efforts.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Scattershot. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/scattershot
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.