scoot
verbEtymology Of uncertain origin. Perhaps from Old Norse skjóta (“to shoot”), or perhaps related to Middle English scottlynge (“moving one's feet quickly, scampering”, literally “scuttling”), see scuddle, scuttle.
1
To walk or travel fast; to go quickly.
2
To run away hastily; scram.
- You'd better scoot before my mother gets home and sees that broken window!
3
Of an animal To move with the forelegs while sitting, so that the floor rubs against its rear end.
- The dog was scooting all over our new carpet.
- If you ever see your dog scooting its hind end along the floor, chances are that anal sac irritation or impaction exists.1990, Chris C. Pinney, Guide to Home Pet Grooming, page 44:
2 more examples
- What if my cat is biting its tail, scooting or rubbing its bottom on the ground?1997, J. M. Evans, Kay White, Catopedia:
- The old wives tale is that a dog that scoots on its rear has worms, but that's rarely the case. Dogs that scoot, lick, or chew underneath their tails usually have anal gland issues.2008, Sandy Blackburn, The Everything Dog Grooming Book: All You Need to Help Your Pet Look and Feel Great!, page 62:
4
Often, With over To move sideways (especially along a seat for multiple people), usually to make room for someone else (to sit, stand, etc.).
- Do you mind scooting a bit to the left?
- Would you mind scooting over for me?
5
To dispatch someone or something at speed; Synonym of shoo.
- He scooted us out of the study and turned off the light […]1930, Frank Richards, The Magnet: Prout's Lovely Black Eye:
- Derived terms
- on the scoot, scoot over, scoot up