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.

Sea drones, including uncrewed surface vessels and submarines, use sonar to scan for mines without risking sailors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

It has been 10 days of many exams Pet Scan - Cat scan - 2 MRI’s- Biopsy - multiple bloodwork - now at least I know what I face.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

A CT scan later revealed brain inflammation, and on 12 September she was diagnosed with viral encephalitis.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

According to Anthropic and partners, Mythos can autonomously scan vast amounts of code to find and chain together previously unknown security vulnerabilities in all kinds of software, from operating systems to web browsers.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

I scan the room to see if other guys sit with girls.

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko

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

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!