ˈskɪmə n. 1 a
device for skimming liquids. 2 a
person who skims. 3 a flat
hat,
esp. a broad-brimmed
straw hat. 4
any long-winged
marine bird of
the genus Rynchops
that feeds by skimming
over water with its knifelike lower
mandible immersed. 5 a
hydroplane,
hydrofoil,
hovercraft, or
other vessel that
has little or no
displacement at
speed. 6 US a sheath-like
dress. [ME f. OF escumoir f. escumer f. escume SCUM]