occurring or found at intervals or various locations rather than all together

the forecast is for scattered showers

a scattered clifftop community

(of a person) distracted or disorganized

with so much on her plate, however, she can be a bit scattered

(of electromagnetic radiation or particles) deflected or diffused

changes in the angular distribution of scattered light

throw in various random directions

scatter the coconut over the icing

his family are hoping to scatter his ashes at sea

(of a group of people or animals) separate and move off quickly in different directions

the roar made the dogs scatter

deflect or diffuse (electromagnetic radiation or particles)

the light is scattered as it strikes particles suspended in the air

(of a pitcher) allow (several hits) at intervals so as to result in little or no scoring

Fernandez struck out 14 while scattering three hits over eight scoreless innings