scum  (skŭm) 
n. A filmy layer of extraneous or impure matter that forms on or rises to the surface of a liquid or body of water. The refuse or dross of molten metals. Refuse or worthless matter. Slang One, such as a person or an element of society, that is regarded as despicable or worthless.
v.
scummed, scum·ming, scums
v.
tr.
To remove the scum from.
v.
intr.
To become covered with scum.
[Middle English, from Middle Dutch schūm; see (s)keu- in Indo-European roots.]
scum'mer n., scum'mi·ly adv., scum'mi·ness n., scum'my adj. |
