Skim - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To skim means to read or glance through something quickly to get the main ideas without focusing on details. It is often used for previewing texts or finding key information efficiently.
Definition:
To remove or glide lightly over a surface, or to read quickly for main points.
Synonyms:
scan, browse, glance, skip
Part of Speech:
verb, noun
Antonyms:
scrutinize, delve
Common Collocations:
skim milk, skim the surface, skim through a book
Derivatives:
skimmer, skimming
Usage Tips:
Use "skim" for quick reading or removing a top layer; avoid confusion with "scan" for detailed examination.
Common Phrases:
skim the cream off the top, skim over the details, skim through the pages
Etymology:
From Old French "escumer," meaning to remove scum or foam from liquid.
Examples:
- 1. She skimmed the newspaper during breakfast.
- 2. He used a spoon to skim the fat off the soup.
- 3. The bird skimmed the water as it flew low.
- 4. I only had time to skim the report before the meeting.