scoop

scoop [sko͞op]

n.

[ME scope < MDu schope, bailing vessel, schoppe, a shovel, akin to Ger schöpfen, to dip out, create]

1. any of various utensils shaped like a small shovel or a ladle; specif.,

a) a kitchen utensil used to take up sugar, flour, etc.

b) a small utensil with a round bowl, for dishing up ice cream, mashed potatoes, etc.

c) a small, spoonlike surgical instrument

2. the deep shovel of a dredge or steam shovel, which takes up sand, dirt, etc.

3. the act or motion of taking up with or as with a scoop

4. the amount taken up at one time by a scoop

5. a hollowed-out place

☆ 6. Informal

a) the publication or broadcast of a news item before a competitor; beat

b) such a news item

c) current, esp. confidential, information

adj.

designating a rounded, somewhat low neckline in a dress, etc.

vt.

1. to take up or out with or as with a scoop

2. to empty by bailing

3. to dig (out); hollow ( out)

4. to make by digging out

5. to gather (in or up) as if with a scoop

☆ 6. Informal to publish or broadcast a news item before (a competitor)

scooper

n.