I. ˈskid.ə(r), -itə- verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: probably freq. of skite (I)
intransitive verb
1. : to pass or glide lightly or hurriedly: as
a. : to skip along a surface
skittering across the ice on belly or back — S.H.Adams
b. : to skim along or scamper with bobbing motions : scurry , skip
watch a rabbit skitter off into the woods — Grace Metalious
2. : to draw the hook of a fishing line through or along the surface of water with a twitching or quivering motion
transitive verb
: to cause to skitter
skitter stones across the pond
specifically : to impart a twitching motion to (a fishhook) when drawing through or along the surface of the water
II. noun
( -s )
1. : a light gliding or bobbing motion : scurrying, scamper
2. : a sound of skittering : rustle