skitter

[skit-er]

verb (used without object)

1. to go, run, or glide lightly or rapidly.

2. to skim along a surface.

3. Angling.,  to draw a lure or a baited hook over the water with a skipping motion.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to skitter.

skitter

/ ˈskɪtə /

verb

1. to move or run rapidly or lightly; scamper

2. to skim or cause to skim lightly and rapidly, as across the surface of water

3. (intr) angling to draw a bait lightly over the surface of water

Word History and Origins

Origin of skitter¹

1835–45; skit, variant of skite ¹ + -er ⁶

Word History and Origins

Origin of skitter¹

C19: probably from dialect skite to dash about; related to Old Norse skjōta to _shoot

Example Sentences

As “Alien: Earth” skitters toward its season finale, it’s clear that this being intends to do worse than its sheepish gaze lets on.

From Salon

Even with the heavy focus on the redistricting ballot measure, gubernatorial candidates were also skittering around the convention, speaking to various caucuses, greeting delegates in the hallways and holding private meetings.

From Los Angeles Times

The field of poppies is dazzling; the additional deer, ants and rodents skittering across the golden sidewalk are simply strange.

From Los Angeles Times

Motorized blue spotlights skitter across the floor and climb walls to the ceiling, where they rush past a pair of mirrored disco fixtures.

From Los Angeles Times

Danny Ocean types need not apply, but if you hear skittering jazz music as the soundtrack of desperation, your new favorite comedy is here.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bound 
• carom 
• flit 
• gambol 
• graze 
• lope 
• prance 
• ricochet 
• scamper 
• scoot 
• skim 
• tiptoe