scum Hear it!

scum definition

scum (skum)

noun

  1. a thin layer of impurities which forms on the top of liquids or bodies of water, often as the result of boiling or fermentation
  2. the dross or refuse on top of molten metals
  3. worthless parts or things; refuse
  4. Informal a low, despicable person, or such people collectively; lowlife

Etymology: ME < MDu schum, akin to Ger schaum, foam, scum, prob. < IE base *(s)keu-, to cover > sky

transitive verb scummed, scumming scum′·ming

to remove scum from; skim

intransitive verb

to form scum; become covered with scum

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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