skitter etymology

Etymology

The word "skitter" is derived from the Middle English word "skiten," meaning "to defecate." It is thought to be related to the Old English word "scut," meaning "a short tail," which is also the origin of the word "scuttle."

Meaning

Skitter means to move quickly and lightly, often in a haphazard or uncontrolled manner. It can also refer to the sound made by something moving quickly or lightly, such as the sound of raindrops on a windowpane.

Origin

The word "skitter" first appeared in the English language in the 16th century. It was originally used to describe the movement of a bird, especially a small bird that flits about quickly and erratically. Over time, the word came to be used more generally to describe any kind of quick and light movement.

Usage

The word "skitter" is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including:

  • To describe the movement of a small animal, such as a mouse or squirrel
  • To describe the movement of a person or object that is moving quickly and lightly
  • To describe the sound made by something moving quickly or lightly
  • To describe something that is erratic or unpredictable

Examples

  • The mouse skittered across the floor.
  • The leaves skittered in the wind.
  • The raindrops skittered on the windowpane.
  • The stock market skittered wildly.

skitter relate terms

  • skit

    Etymology The word skit is derived from the Old Norse word skita meaning a short

  • shoot

    Etymology Proto Indo European s kew meaning to push throw cast Meaning To

  • skittish

    Etymology Middle English skittish from Old English scyte from Proto Germanic skutjōn

  • skittish

    Etymology Middle English skittish from Old English scyte from Proto Germanic skutjōn

  • skit

    Etymology The word skit is derived from the Old Norse word skita meaning a short