scum
UK: skʌm | US: skʌm
n. 1. A layer of impurities or waste material floating on the surface of a liquid.
n. 2. (Derogatory) A worthless or contemptible person or group of people.
No data yet.
The word "scum" originated in Middle English (early 14th century) from Middle Dutch "schūm" or Middle Low German "schūm," meaning "foam" or "floating residue." It is related to Old High German "scūm" and Old Norse "skūm," all referring to froth or impurities on liquids. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe despised individuals, reflecting the notion of being "unwanted residue" in society.
A thick layer of scum formed on the pond's surface.
The factory was fined for dumping toxic scum into the river.
He referred to the corrupt officials as the scum of society.
Remove the scum from the boiling soup with a spoon.
The politician’s speech targeted the scum exploiting the system.