Scampering

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Moving swiftly and lightly, often with small, rapid steps, as if running playfully or nervously
2. Describes a quick, light movement characterized by rapid, small footsteps, suggesting agility or excitement
3. To move in a lively, brisk manner with feet barely touching the ground, giving a sense of nimbleness or haste

Etymology: "Scampering" is the present participle of "scamper," which first appears in English in 1687. Its origin is uncertain. One suggestion links it to Dutch "schamperen," which in turn may descend from Old French "escamper," meaning to decamp or flee, from Vulgar Latin "excampāre," a compound meaning to get out of the field. The image is military: a force that breaks camp and runs off in haste. Whatever its exact path, the word has a clear sense of hurried, lighthearted movement. Many early uses describe small animals or children darting about rather than soldiers fleeing, so the battlefield flight seems to have softened into play over time.

Synonyms: scurrying, hurrying, running, darting, dashing

Antonyms: strolling