■ verb ( ~s , ~ning , ~ned )
1》 look at quickly in order to identify relevant features or information.
2》 traverse with a detector or an electromagnetic beam, especially to obtain an image.
↘cause (a beam) to traverse across a surface or object.
↘resolve (a picture) into its elements of light and shade in a prearranged pattern for the purposes of television transmission.
↘convert (a document or picture) into digital form for storage or processing on a computer.
3》 analyse the metre of (a line of verse) by reading with appropriate intonation or by examining the pattern of feet or syllables.
↘(of verse) conform to metrical principles.
■ noun
1》 an act of ~ning.
2》 a medical examination using a ~ner.
↘an image obtained by ~ning or with a ~ner.
Derivatives
~nable adjective
Origin
ME: from L. ~dere 'climb' (in late L. '~ (verses)'), by analogy with the raising and lowering of one's foot when marking rhythm; later arose the senses 'analyse' and 'look at searchingly'.