from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Scribe \Scribe\ (skr[imac]b), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Scribed}
(skr[imac]bd); p. pr. & vb. n. {Scribing}.]
1. To write, engrave, or mark upon; to inscribe. --Spenser.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Carp.) To cut (anything) in such a way as to fit closely
to a somewhat irregular surface, as a baseboard to a floor
which is out of level, a board to the curves of a molding,
or the like; -- so called because the workman marks, or
scribes, with the compasses the line that he afterwards
cuts.
[1913 Webster]
3. To score or mark with compasses or a scribing iron.
[1913 Webster]
{Scribing iron}, an iron-pointed instrument for scribing, or
marking, casks and logs.
[1913 Webster]