Definitions

scan

[skan] / skæn /

VERB

look over, scrutinize lightly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

browse check examine flash flip through leaf through look through scour search skim thumb through

STRONG

consider contemplate inquire investigate look overlook regard riff riffle rumble study survey sweep

WEAK

dip into give the once-over glance at glance over have a look-see look up and down run over run through size up take a gander take stock of

Antonyms

STRONG

discard disregard forget ignore look away neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

CT scan, we waited for two hours with no explanation.

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

"I've just had a scan just now, and there is no cancer in my body -- that's an extraordinary thing," Neil said.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

The process most often involves doing what you do to unlock your device - such as using built-in biometric sensors to scan your fingerprint or face, or using a pin code.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

For example, Tinder is planning to use AI to scan your entire camera roll.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2026

We can look back and make the era of the American Revolution a center point, then scan the terrain upstream and downstream, but they can only know what is downstream.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing scan

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 4

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The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words

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