Definition

A very tall building that usually has many floors and is used for offices, apartments, or other purposes.

Example

The city skyline is dominated by a stunning skyscraper that reaches high into the clouds.

Conversation

Have you seen the new skyscraper downtown?

Yeah, it's massive! I can't believe how tall it is.

I heard it has an observation deck at the top.

That would be an amazing view of the city!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skyscraper is formed from "sky" (from Old Norse *sky*, meaning cloud or atmosphere) and "scraper" (from the verb "to scrape", meaning to remove or scratch). The word describes a building that scrapes the sky, reaching great heights.

Memory Tip

Imagine a building that 'scrapes' the 'sky' — that's why a skyscraper is a tall building that reaches up into the clouds.

Visually Confused Words