scalp

²scalp

verb

Definition of SCALP

transitive verb

1

a : to deprive of the scalp b : to remove an upper part from

2

: to remove a desired constituent from and discard the rest

3

: to buy and sell so as to make small quick profits <scalp stocks> <scalp grain>; especially : to resell at greatly increased prices <scalp theater tickets>

intransitive verb

1

: to take scalps

2

: to profit by slight market fluctuations

— scalp·er noun

Examples of SCALP

1. Some members of the tribe were scalped by the attacking warriors.

First Known Use of SCALP

1676