scoop
UK[skuːp]US[skuːp]
n
a tool like a spoon with a deep bowl and a short handle, used for picking up and moving loose or soft substances
n
the amount held by a scoop
n
an important or exciting news story that is reported by one newspaper, website, etc. before any others
v
to pick something up or move something with a scoop or with something used like a scoop
v
to learn or find out important information, especially before someone else does
Etymology
the word "scoop" entered english from middle dutch or middle low german, where it originally denoted a vessel for bailing water from a boat. the core concept has always been one of a hollow, shovel-like tool for lifting and moving a quantity of a substance. this functional meaning expanded metaphorically; by the late 19th century, journalists adopted "scoop" to mean obtaining and publishing a story ahead of rivals, conceptually 'lifting out' exclusive information. the verb forms naturally followed from the actions performed with the noun. its journey reflects a common pattern where a concrete tool's name evolves to describe abstract actions of acquisition and revelation.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. it is a loanword from middle dutch 'schope' (a scoop for bailing water) or middle low german 'schope', which referred to a bucket or a scoop for bailing. its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be related to a germanic base meaning 'to shape or hollow out'.
Examples
she used an ice-cream scoop to serve the dessert.
the reporter managed to get the scoop on the merger before any other news outlet.
he scooped the coins off the table and into his pocket.