DEF: To scrape off the top layer of a liquid (See dictionary for many more definitions).
EX:
To make soup, boil the chicken, then skim off the fat.
The government wants to skim 30% of the excess profit the companies are making.
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
skim (verb)transitive verb
1.
a) to clear (a liquid) of scum or floating substance - skim boiling syrup
b) to remove (as film or scum) from the surface of a liquid
c) to remove cream from by - skimming
d) to remove the best or most easily obtainable contents from
2.
to read, study, or examine superficially and rapidly , especially to glance through (as a book) for the chief ideas or the plot
3.
to throw in a gliding path , especially to throw so as to ricochet along the surface of water
4.
to cover with or as if with a film, scum, or coat
5.
to pass swiftly or lightly over
6.
a) to remove or conceal (as a portion of casino profits) to avoid payment of taxes
intransitive verb
b) - embezzle skimming money from employee pension plans
1.
a) to pass lightly or hastily glide or skip along, above, or near a surface
b) to give a cursory glance, consideration, or reading
2.
to become coated with a thin layer of film or scum
3.
to put on a finishing coat of plaster
4.
to embezzle money
1.
a thin layer, coating, or film
2.
the act of - skimming
3.
something - skimmed , specifically - skim milk
1.
having the cream removed by - skimming
2.
made of skim milk - skim cheese
