Careless handwriting is called griffonage.
Griffonage refers to handwriting that is crude, illegible, or simply careless. It's essentially a scrawl that is difficult to decipher.
A Closer Look at Griffonage
- Definition: As Merriam-Webster defines it, griffonage is "careless handwriting, a crude or illegible scrawl."
- Characteristics: Common characteristics include inconsistent letter formation, erratic spacing, and an overall lack of attention to detail.
- Synonyms: While "griffonage" is a specific term, other words that describe similar types of handwriting include:
- Illegible handwriting
- Scribbling
- Scrawl
- Chicken scratch
- Historical Context: The word "griffonage" isn't new. While its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, its use has been documented for some time.
In summary, when referring to handwriting that is sloppy and hard to read, "griffonage" is a fitting and precise term.
