Definition

To move smoothly over a surface while using skates or a skateboard, often gliding effortlessly.

Example

She loves to skate at the park every weekend.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I saw you skate at the park yesterday; you looked really good!

Thanks! I’ve been practicing my tricks a lot lately.

Do you think I could learn to skate like that?

Of course! Just start slow and have fun with it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of footwear with a blade or wheels used for gliding on ice or surfaces.

Example

She put on her ice skates and glided across the rink.

Conversation

I just got a new pair of skates for the winter.

Really? Are they for ice skating or roller skating?

They're for ice skating! I can't wait to try them out.

Root Explanation

Skate originates from Middle Dutch 'schate', meaning a flat piece of wood or a board. The word refers to the flat object used for gliding over ice or water.

Memory Tip

Think of a flat board ('schate') that helps you glide smoothly over ice or water — that's what skating is all about.

Visually Confused Words