Meaning of the word scum in English

What does scum mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

scum

US /skʌm/
UK /skʌm/

Noun

1.

a layer of dirt or froth on the surface of a liquid

Example:
There was a thick layer of green scum on the stagnant pond.
Boil the jam and skim off the scum.
2.

a contemptible or worthless person or group of people

Example:
He called them the scum of the earth.
That whole organization is nothing but scum.