IPA: /skæn/
KK: /skæn/
To look quickly over something in order to find information or to check for something.
I will scan the document for any errors before submitting it.
Past: scanned
Past Participle: scanned
A process of examining something closely or a picture made by using a scanner.
The doctor reviewed the scan to check for any abnormalities.
To look at or examine something carefully, often using a device to capture an image or data.
The doctor will scan the patient's body to check for any issues.
Past: scanned
Past Participle: scanned
Scan → The word originates from the Latin 'scanere' (meaning to climb or leap), which evolved into the Old Norse 'skanna' (meaning to examine or scrutinize). The modern meaning of 'scan' refers to the act of examining closely or quickly, often to gather information.
Think of 'climbing' or 'leaping' through information quickly — that's why to scan means to examine something closely or rapidly.