scum

[ skuhm ]

noun

1. a film or layer of foul or extraneous matter that forms on the surface of a liquid.
2. refuse or offscourings.
3. a low, worthless, or evil person.
4. such persons collectively; riffraff; dregs.
5. scoria ( def 1 ).

verb (used with object)

, scummed, scum·ming.

1. to remove the scum from.
2. to remove as scum.

verb (used without object)

, scummed, scum·ming.

1. to form scum; become covered with scum.

scum

/ skʌm /

noun

1. a layer of impure matter that forms on the surface of a liquid, often as the result of boiling or fermentation
2. the greenish film of algae and similar vegetation surface of a stagnant pond
3. Also calleddrossscruff the skin of oxides or impurities on the surface of a molten metal
4. waste matter
5. a worthless person or group of people

verb

1. tr to remove scum from
2. rare.
   intr to form a layer of or become covered with scum

Derived Forms

• ˈscumˌlike, adjective
• ˈscummer, noun

Other Words From

• scumless adjective
• scumlike adjective
• un·scummed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of scum¹

1200–50; Middle English scume < Middle Dutch schūme ( Dutch schuim ) foam; cognate with German Schaum foam

Word History and Origins

Origin of scum¹

C13: of Germanic origin; related to Old High German scūm, Middle Dutch schūm, Old French escume; see skim

Example Sentences

Trump has made almost the same comment as Biden did, but about Harris’ supporters — calling them “garbage” and “scum” — and has called America overall a “dumping ground” and a “garbage can” for the world.

From Los Angeles Times

During his trial at Sheffield Crown Court in August, a judge heard he was at the front of a crowd protesting against immigration and had shouted "scum" and "child killers" at police.

From BBC

Video played to the court showed Lynch "revving up" the situation before it turned violent and calling the police "scum", the judge said.

From BBC

Strong noted Trump's use of the words "human scum", which the actor said "is a term used by Hitler and Stalin" and other dictators.

From BBC

“Die yuppie scum” was one of the main slogans of my teen years, so in that context, it was not cool.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• froth