[C18: related to earlier verb skit to move rapidly, hence to score a satirical hit, probably of Scandinavian origin; related to Old Norse skjóta to shoot]
1572, "a vain, frivolous, or wanton girl" (originally Scottish, now archaic), related to verb meaning "to shy or be skittish," perhaps from O.N. skjuta "to shoot" (see skittish). Sense shifted to "a satirical remark or reflection" (1727), then "a piece of light satire or caricature" (1820).