skitter
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈskɪtər/
KK: /ˈskɪtər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move quickly and lightly across a surface, often making small jumps or changes in direction.
Example
The leaves skittered across the pavement in the wind.
Tense Forms
Past: skittered
Past Participle: skittered
Conversation
Did you see how the little lizards skitter across the rocks?
Yeah, they move so quickly! It's amazing to watch them.
I love how they just skitter away when you get close.
Right? It's like they have their own little game of tag.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
scurry
dart
skate
Antonyms
linger
tarry
crawl
transitive verb
Definition
To move quickly and lightly, often in a way that suggests a quick, darting motion.
Example
The leaves skittered across the pavement in the wind.
Tense Forms
Past: skittered
Past Participle: skittered
Conversation
Did you see that little bug skitter across the floor earlier?
Yeah, it was so fast!
I wonder what makes it skitter like that.
Root Explanation
The word 'skitter' originates from the Middle English 'skiteren', meaning to move lightly or quickly. It is likely imitative of the sound made by something skimming or gliding over a surface.
Memory Tip
Imagine something moving lightly and quickly, like a small creature skimming over the ground — that's what 'skitter' means.
Visually Confused Words
sitter
kitter
spitter
slitter
skirter
knitter
skier
squitter