skip
UK[skɪp]US[skɪp]
v
to move lightly and quickly, making a small jump after each step
v
to leave out something that would normally be the next thing you would do, read, etc.
v
to not do something that you usually do or that you should do
Etymology
The verb 'skip' likely entered Middle English from a Scandinavian source, such as Old Norse 'skopa' meaning 'to take a run,' or is related to Middle Swedish 'skuppa' meaning 'to jump.' Its ultimate origin is obscure but may be imitative in nature, echoing a light, springing motion. The core sense of a light, hopping movement has persisted, while figurative extensions, such as omitting items or avoiding duties, developed from the idea of 'jumping over' something in a sequence. This evolution from a physical leap to a metaphorical bypass illustrates a common pattern of semantic broadening.
Analysis
The word 'skip' is a simplex word of uncertain, likely Scandinavian origin. It functions as a single, indivisible lexical unit in modern English.
Examples
The child skipped happily down the garden path.
You can skip the introduction and go straight to chapter one.
He never skips his morning coffee.