Skittered

To move lightly and quickly over a surface, often with a series of short, jerky movements. This implies a sense of rapid, almost erratic, motion, frequently caused by fear, excitement, or an uneven surface. The movement is usually horizontal, though it can involve a slight vertical component. Often associated with small creatures, objects sliding across a surface, or fleeting human actions. It suggests a lack of control or a deliberate avoidance of staying in one place for too long. The action can create a light, rustling or scraping sound depending on the surface. It is a verb that can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, conveying a sense of quickness and unease.

Skittered meaning with examples

• The mouse skittered across the kitchen floor, darting beneath the refrigerator as the cat entered. Its rapid movements highlighted its fear of being caught, the skittering sounds momentarily breaking the silence. The sudden burst of speed contrasted with the slow, deliberate steps of the feline predator, creating a tense dynamic.
• Raindrops skittered across the windowpane during the thunderstorm, the fast motion a blur of movement. The wind-driven water appeared almost alive. The speed and sporadic nature of the impact captured the ferocity of the storm, a stark contrast to the calmer weather. The movement created a captivating, if somewhat chaotic, spectacle.
• Her nervous thoughts skittered around her mind before the interview, bouncing from topic to topic without settling on a focus. The chaotic nature of her internal dialogue fueled her anxiety. This internal turmoil created a mental restlessness that made it difficult to concentrate. It reflected her apprehension about the upcoming event.
• The scattered marbles skittered across the hard wooden floor when the child tripped, creating a cascade of light sounds. Their erratic paths created a brief, unplanned spectacle. The marbles' movement, triggered by a stumble, created a random, unpredictable sequence. Their escape indicated a momentary loss of order.
• The dry leaves skittered across the pavement as the wind picked up speed, driven by an unexpected gust. Their movement, initially gentle, turned erratic. It symbolized the change in weather and season. The sound added a new layer to an otherwise silent scene, as the autumn colors moved.