scum

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

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Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Noun 1.3.1 Synonyms 1.3.2 Related terms 1.3.3 Translations

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

Cognate to German Schaum, foam

[edit] Pronunciation

•  audio (US)^{help, file}
• IPA: /skʌm/

  Rhymes: -ʌm

[edit] Noun

scum (countable and uncountable; plural scums)

1. (uncountable) A layer of impurities that accumulates at the surface of a liquid (especially molten metal or water).
2. (uncountable) A greenish water vegetation (such as algae), usually found floating on the surface of ponds
3. The topmost liquid layer of a cesspool or septic tank.
4. (countable) (derogatory, slang) A person or persons considered to be reprehensible.

[edit] Synonyms

• (layer of impurities): dross, impurities; (on molten metal) cinder, (on molten metal) dross, (on molten metal) scoriae, (on molten metal) slag
• (derogatory, slang, person or persons considered reprehensible): bastard

[edit] Related terms

• scumbag
• scummy

[edit] Translations