Definition of skim
skimmed;
skimming
1 a
: to clear (a liquid) of scum or floating substance
- skim boiling syrup
b
: to remove (a film, a layer of scum, etc.) from the surface of a liquid
c
: to remove cream from by skimming
d
: to remove the best or most easily obtainable contents from
2
: to read, study, or examine superficially and rapidly;
especially
: to glance through (something, such as a book) for the chief ideas or the plot
3
: to throw in a gliding path;
especially
: to throw so as to ricochet along the surface of water
4
: to cover with or as if with a film, scum, or coat
5
: to pass swiftly or lightly over
6 a
: to remove or conceal (money, such as a portion of casino profits) to avoid payment of taxes
b
: embezzle
- skimming money from employee pension plans
1 a
: to pass lightly or hastily : glide or skip along, above, or near a surface
b
: to give a cursory glance, consideration, or reading
2
: to become coated with a thin layer of film or scum
3
: to put on a finishing coat of plaster
4
: to embezzle money
