What does SKATE mean?

Parts of Speech

Skate can function as a noun or a verb.

Definitions

• As a noun: a flat, narrow, fish-like sea creature with a skeleton made of cartilage, typically eaten as food or used as bait for fishing.
• As a verb: to move smoothly and quickly along a surface, typically on a board or on skates.

Pronunciations

• US: /skeɪt/
• UK: /skeɪt/

Origin and Usage

The word "skate" comes from the Old Norse word "skata" meaning "fish to be roasted." The noun form of "skate" has been used since the 14th century to refer to the sea creature. The verb form of "skate" has been used since the 18th century to refer to moving smoothly and quickly along a surface.

Synonyms

As a noun: ray, flounder, sole

As a verb: glide, slide, coast

Related Words

blade, board, glide, slide, wheel

Example Sentences

• As a noun: The fisherman caught a skate off the coast of Maine.
• As a verb: The kids love to skate on the frozen pond in the park.