What does skipping mean?
Skipping describes the act of moving in a series of light jumps, usually on one foot or both feet, as children often do while playing or walking. It also means to pass over or omit something, as in skipping a section of a book or deliberately avoiding a topic. These senses share an idea of proceeding in an uneven or discontinuous way, with the physical sense emphasizing lightness and the figurative sense emphasizing avoidance or lack of continuity. People also use skipping for the activity of jumping repeatedly over a moving rope, and in expressions such as skipping stones across water. The word is common in both formal and informal English, although “omitting” or “bypassing” may sound more neutral in business, academic, or technical contexts.
To move or jump lightly on one foot or both feet; to omit or pass over something; or to proceed with a series of light jumps.
"The rabbit skipped across the garden and disappeared behind the fence."
The physical and figurative senses are both common; figurative uses often imply that something is being passed over or avoided.
The act of moving or jumping lightly, often repeatedly; also, the activity of jumping over a rope.
"Their skipping continued until the bell rang."
Involving or characterized by repeated light jumps, or occurring intermittently with material omitted.
"The children joined a skipping contest in the schoolyard."
The plural is uncommon because “skipping” is normally used as a gerund, participle, or mass noun for the activity.
"The skippings were recorded by a passerby and later appeared in a local newspaper."
A single word can describe a graceful leap across a floor and a deliberate decision to leave something out.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skipping come from?
Skipping is the present participle and gerund of skip. The verb appears in Middle English in senses connected with moving lightly or leaping, while its modern figurative meanings developed from the idea of leaving gaps or passing over something. Over time, the word extended from physical movement to omission, avoidance, and hurried movement through a sequence of items.
How skipping is actually used
In its movement sense, skipping is usually light and rhythmic. In its metaphorical sense, it means to pass over or omit something, often with the implication that the omitted material is unimportant or intentionally avoided.
Easily confused with skipping
Skipping means moving lightly or omitting something, whereas skimming usually means reading quickly over the surface of a text or liquid.