skim

[[t]skɪm[/t]]

v. skimmed, skim•ming, n.

1) to take up or remove (floating matter) from the surface of a liquid, as with a spoon or ladle

2) to clear (liquid) thus:

to skim milk[/ex]

3) to move or glide lightly over or along (a surface, as of water)

4) to throw in a smooth, gliding path over or near a surface, or so as to bounce or ricochet along a surface:

skimmed a stone across the lake[/ex]

5) to read, study, consider, treat, etc., in a superficial or cursory manner

6) to cover with a thin film or layer:

Ice skimmed the lake at night[/ex]

7) to take the best or most available parts or items from:

bargain hunters skimming the flea markets at sunrise[/ex]

8) to take (the best parts or items) from something

9) sts to conceal a portion of (winnings, earnings, etc.) in order to avoid paying taxes, fees, or the like on the full amount (sometimes fol. by off)

10) to pass or glide lightly over or near a surface

11) to read, study, consider, etc., something in a superficial or cursory way

12) to become covered with a thin film or layer

13) sts to conceal some part of income or profits; practice skimming

14) an act or instance of skimming

15) something that is skimmed off

16) a thin layer or film formed on the surface of something, esp. a liquid

17) sts the amount taken or concealed by skimming

18) skim milk

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Etymology: 1375–1425; ME skymen, skemen < OF escumer, der. ofescumeimpurities, scum < VL*scūma « WGmc; see scum