skimming

noun

skim·​ming ˈski-miŋ How to pronounce skimming (audio)
Synonyms of skimmingnext
1
: that which is skimmed from a liquid
2
: the act or practice of using an electronic card reader (as on an ATM) to obtain data (such as a credit card number) secretly and illicitly

Examples of skimming 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.
Last April, Talcove traveled to Las Vegas with the Secret Service to conduct a payment card skimming fraud operation. Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026 But the federal government hasn't rolled out a nationwide solution for skimming and fraud. Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer, 1 Dec. 2025 Crooks also engage in card skimming. Susan Tompor, USA Today, 8 Oct. 2025 Some skimming of the froth would not be unhealthy, though the question is whether the market got wound tightly enough that a hiccup in the high-momentum groups convulses the rest of the market too. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for skimming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skimming was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Skimming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skimming. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.

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