scum
[skʌm]
Scum is a type of dirty or foul matter that's on the surface of something like water or mud. When you look at a stagnant pond, you might see scum floating on top.
You'll often hear people use the word "scum" to describe people who behave badly or are considered low-class. Think of it as referring to someone who leaves trash behind wherever they go – not just physical trash but also someone with bad manners or no respect for others.
How common is "scum"?
Word scum is considered rare in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.
Definitions
noun
A layer of impurities that accumulates at the surface of a liquid (especially molten metal or water).
Example: During smelting, scum rises to the surface and is then removed by the smelter.
drossimpuritiescinderscoriaeslag
verb
To remove the layer of scum from (a liquid etc.).
Real examples of "scum" in context
