skim

skim [skim]

vt.

skimmed, skimming [ME skimen, prob. akin to SCUM]

1.

a) to clear (a liquid) of floating matter

b) to remove (floating matter) from a liquid

2. to coat or cover with a thin layer [a pond skimmed with ice]

3. to look at hastily or carelessly; glance through (a book, etc.) without reading word for word

4.

a) to glide or pass swiftly and lightly over

b) to throw so as to cause to bounce or ricochet swiftly and lightly [to skim a flat stone across a pond]

5. Slang to refrain from reporting for tax purposes (a percentage of income, gambling gains, etc.)

vi.

1. to move along swiftly and lightly over a surface, through space, etc.; glide; sail

2. to make a rapid or careless examination, as of a book: usually with over or through

3. to become thinly coated, as with scum

n.

1. something that has been skimmed

2. the act of skimming

3. a thin coating or film

adj.

1. that has been skimmed

2. designating or of a finishing coat of plaster [skim coat]