skimmer

noun

skim·​mer ˈski-mər How to pronounce skimmer (audio)
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
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.
Then use a skimmer or pool net to remove any debris from the top of the water. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2024 Carefully blow air through the system and watch for bubbles from the return lines and skimmer. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2024 Detectives found multiple skimmers and cameras on ATM machines at bank branches and convenience stores around the Valley. Olivia Rose, The Arizona Republic, 5 Oct. 2024 The agency says residents with docks can collect any dead fish with a skimmer and place them in the regular trash. Jeff Weiner, Axios, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for skimmer 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near skimmer

Cite this Entry

“Skimmer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skimmer. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

skimmer

noun
skim·​mer ˈskim-ər How to pronounce skimmer (audio)
: one that skims
especially : a flat scoop or spoon with holes that is used for skimming

More from Merriam-Webster on skimmer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!