skitter

[ skit-er ]

verb (used without object)

1. to go, run, or glide lightly or rapidly.
2. to skim along a surface.
3. Angling. to draw a lure or a baited hook over the water with a skipping motion.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to skitter.

skitter

/ ˈskɪtə /

verb

1. introften foll byoff to move or run rapidly or lightly; scamper
2. to skim or cause to skim lightly and rapidly, as across the surface of water
3. intr angling to draw a bait lightly over the surface of water

Word History and Origins

Origin of skitter¹

1835–45; skit, variant of skite ¹ + -er ⁶

Word History and Origins

Origin of skitter¹

C19: probably from dialect skite to dash about; related to Old Norse skjōta to shoot

Example Sentences

I accidentally kick one sending it skittering across the floor, and causing a brief moment of excitement before I apologetically explain it was me and not a ghost.

From BBC

His debut album, Bad With Names, was released last year, showcasing his ability to edit improvised jam sessions into taut and compelling songs, full of skittering beats, squelchy synths and monstrous riffs.

From BBC

From the wild skittering of his eyes, I could tell that Samir had reverted to his first instinct—salesmanship.

From Literature

The first we heard of it was when my sister Louise came skittering down the long passage from upstairs.

From Literature

She skitters, knocking over garbage cans, snapping her jaws.

From Literature

Related Words

• bound
• carom
• flit
• gambol
• graze
• lope
• prance
• ricochet
• scamper
• scoot
• skim
• tiptoe