skimmer

noun

skim·​mer ˈski-mər 

1

: one that skims

specifically : a flat perforated scoop or spoon used for skimming

2

: any of a small genus (Rynchops) of long-winged marine birds that have the lower mandible longer than the upper

3

: a usually straw flat-crowned hat with a wide straight brim

4

: a fitted sleeveless dress with a usually flaring skirt

5

: a device that is attached to an electronic card reader (as on an ATM) and used to obtain data (such as a credit card number) secretly and illicitly

The credit union said someone had fitted a skimmer over the ATM card slot to collect information on inserted cards but the company said it wasn't sure how many cards had been affected at this time.

—The Leader-Herald (Gloversville, NewYork)

Once you put your card in, the device, called a skimmer, reads and records all the account information stored on the magnetic strip, and even retrieves your PIN as you punch it into the keypad.

—Mary Hunt

Examples of skimmer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Skimming devices have been built with parts from old MP3 players, and 3D printers produce skimmer devices with flawless precision. —T. Nelson Thompson, Baltimore Sun, 23 Mar. 2024

Authorities deployed skimmer vessels for the cleanup efforts and laid close to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) of oil absorbent booms to protect a coastal natural reserve lined with mangroves. —Kathleen Magramo, CNN, 17 June 2024

Putting the brush into action is easy: simply remove the net from your skimmer pole, click the attachment head into place, and scrub away. —Alyssa Brascia, Peoplemag, 8 June 2024

Throughout the country thieves are using skimmers to get account numbers and pin codes, officials said. —Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

skimmer

noun

skim·​mer ˈskim-ər 

: one that skims

especially : a flat scoop or spoon with holes that is used for skimming