skimming

noun

skim·​ming ˈski-miŋ How to pronounce skimming (audio)
1
: that which is skimmed from a liquid
2
: the act or practice of using an electronic card reader (as on an ATM) to obtain data (such as a credit card number) secretly and illicitly

Examples of skimming in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Crooks also engage in card skimming. Susan Tompor, USA Today, 8 Oct. 2025 Some skimming of the froth would not be unhealthy, though the question is whether the market got wound tightly enough that a hiccup in the high-momentum groups convulses the rest of the market too. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2025 According to the brand, the wind and sun there evaporate 90 percent of the fresh water in these marshes, leaving behind salt crystals at the bottom that are harvested using a skimming tool. Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2025 Crooks also engage in card skimming. Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for skimming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skimming was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Skimming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skimming. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

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