scum
noun
a film or layer of foul or extraneous matter that forms on the surface of a liquid.
scums
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pluralof scum.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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present tense formof scum (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
scumnouna film or layer of foul or extraneous matter that forms on the surface of a liquid.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
When this occurs, blue-green algae can form blooms that discolour the water, or produce floating mats or scums on the water's surface.
From BBC ● Sep. 9, 2025
When this occurs, the algae can form blooms that discolour the water or produce floating mats or scums on the water’s surface.
From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2024
“You’re in the business of representing scums and trying to make as much money as long as there’s this lapse in the law.”
From Time ● Aug. 6, 2014
Mixing of filter press scums with diffusion juices is said to offer special advantages for the preliminary purification.
From Scientific American Supplement, No. 832, December 12, 1891 by Various
The scums and sediments make manure hardly inferior to guano.
From The Prairie Farmer, Vol. 56, No. 2, January 12, 1884 A Weekly Journal for the Farm, Orchard and Fireside by Various
