scum
/skʌm/ noun C1- A layer of impurities that accumulates at the surface of a liquid (especially molten metal or water). · During smelting, scum rises to the surface and is then removed by the smelter.
- A greenish water vegetation (such as algae), usually found floating on the surface of ponds · These organisms form scum in large quantities.
- The topmost liquid layer of a cesspool or septic tank.
- Semen.
- A reprehensible person or persons. · People who sell used-up pens are scum, just total low-lives.
Plural scums
From the library
I take them when they come in my way, but I do not hunt the Bandar-log, or frogs--or green scum on a water-hole, for that matter.”
The exclamations, the insults addressed to Benedetto, who remained perfectly unconcerned, the energetic gestures, the movement of the gendarmes, the sneers of the scum of the crowd always sure to rise to the surface in case of any disturbance—all this lasted five minutes, before the door-keepers and magistrates were able to restore silence.
Other matches
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