1 A2 informal
To move a small distance sideways, especially when seated, to create room for someone.
"Can you scooch over a little? I need to squeeze in at the end of the bench."
inseparable
scooch over
A2 informal inseparable intransitive
To move a short distance to one side, usually while seated, to make room for someone else.
In plain English
To move a little bit to the side so someone else can sit down or have more space.
What does "scooch over" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To scootch (shuffle) oneself over to one side — fairly transparent.
Actually means
To move a little bit to the side so someone else can sit down or have more space.
Usage tip
Very informal and conversational, primarily American English. Often used as a request or command. Especially common when asking someone to shift on a couch, bench, or seat. Often used affectionately with children.
Words that pair with "scooch over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
bench couch sofa seat bed chair
How to conjugate "scooch over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
scooch over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
scooches over
he/she/it
Past simple
scooched over
yesterday
Past participle
scooched over
have + pp
-ing form
scooching over
continuous
Hear "scooch over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "scooch over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.