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.

This is a type of low-dose X-ray scan used to assess bone strength.

From Science Daily • Jun. 25, 2026

Alex Pereira, who lost his interim heavyweight title bout to Ciryl Gane by TKO, was medically suspended for 180 days or until he’s cleared with a negative maxillofacial CT scan.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

Calling Midjourney’s current product a “full-body” scan akin to an MRI is misleading because ultrasound technology cannot penetrate through thick bone structures, Topol noted.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 18, 2026

“They scan the ground in front of them so they can walk, but they don’t really look at things, incredibly well, with an intensity…I do.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 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!