SCAT'TER, v.t. [L. scateo, discutio; Gr. to scatter, to discuss. This word may be formed on the root of discutio. The primary sense is to drive or throw.]
1. To disperse; to dissipate; to separate or remove things to a distance from each other.
From thence did the Lord scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth. Gen 11.
I will scatter you among the heathen. Lev 26.
2. To throw loosely about; to sprinkle; as, to scatter See d in sowing.
Teach the glad hours to scatter, as they fly, soft quiet, gentle love and endless joy.
3. To spread or set thinly.
Why should my muse enlarge on Libyan swains, their scatter'd cottages, and ample plains.
SCAT'TER, v.i.
1. To be dispersed or dissipated. The clouds scatter after a storm.
2. To be liberal to the poor; to be charitable. Prov 11.
