scum

1 of 2

noun

1
a
: extraneous matter or impurities risen to or formed on the surface of a liquid often as a foul filmy covering compare pond scum sense 2
b
: the scoria of metals in a molten state : dross
c
: a slimy film on a solid or gelatinous object
2
a
: refuse
b
: a low, vile, or worthless person or group of people
scummy adjective

scum

2 of 2

verb

scummed; scumming

intransitive verb

: to become covered with or as if with scum

Examples of scum in a Sentence

Noun Boil the chicken and use a spoon to remove any scum that floats to the surface. claimed that only scum lived in that part of town
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.
Noun
Lightly run the stone over the stains, rinsing it as the soap scum collects. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024 Moisten the dryer sheet, rub the soap scum to remove it, and then rinse your shower with clean, warm water to remove any residue. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2024
Verb
Lieberman is the scummiest scumbag who ever scummed. Jim Newell, Slate Magazine, 18 May 2017 See all Example Sentences for scum 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English, from Middle Dutch schum; akin to Old High German scūm foam

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1661, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scum was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near scum

Cite this Entry

“Scum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scum. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

scum

noun
ˈskəm
1
a
: matter that has risen to or formed on the surface of a liquid often as a slimy covering compare pond scum sense 2
b
: a film formed on a solid or gelatinous object
soap scum
2
: a loathsome or worthless person or group of people
scummy
ˈskəm-ē
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on scum

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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