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.

"Drones scan thousands of hectares to accurately count individual crops, assess plant health, spot early signs of disease, and monitor the growth of the piña to predict the absolute perfect window for harvesting," Vadlamudi says.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Flock operates dozens of automated license plate readers, which allow authorities to scan for vehicles that have been reported stolen or are registered to known fugitives, tracking their movements throughout the city.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

A scan of fresh commentary shows a consensus that the selloff represents little more than a necessary blowing off of steam in a bull market that required cooling.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

The hidden prompts could instruct the app to scan a company’s internal systems for sensitive files and transmit them to the attacker’s server.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Alex’s scan showed that there’s nobody else here at Someplace Safe, and he and JP want to check things out.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing scan

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 4

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!