scalp
UK: skælp | US: skælp
n. the skin covering the top of the human head
vt. to remove the scalp from (as a trophy or for medical purposes)
vt. (informal) to resell tickets or goods at a higher price
The word "scalp" traces back to Old Norse skalpr (sheath, shell) and Middle Dutch schelpe (shell), reflecting the idea of a protective outer layer. Over time, it narrowed to specifically mean the skin covering the skull, likely due to its resemblance to a removable "shell." The verb form emerged from the practice of taking scalps as trophies in warfare, later metaphorically extending to profiteering (e.g., ticket scalping).
The surgeon carefully examined the patient’s scalp for signs of infection.
Historically, some warriors scalped their enemies as proof of victory.
Scalping concert tickets is illegal in many jurisdictions.
Sunburn on the scalp can be particularly painful.
The museum displayed a Native American headdress made from dyed scalps.