Meaning & Definition of word "Skinner"

Skinner

/ˈskɪnər/

noun:

  • 1. A person who prepares animal skins for use.
    • Example: The skinner worked diligently to transform the raw hides into leather for the workshop.
  • 2. A person who teaches or applies the principles of behaviorism, particularly as related to B.F. Skinner.
    • Example: As a skinner, she focused on the importance of reinforcement in shaping behavior.
  • 3. In American slang, an individual who is trying to deceive or manipulate others.
    • Example: Watch out for that skinner; he's known for conning people out of their money.

Etymology

Derived from the root word 'skin' with the suffix '-er' denoting someone who performs an action.

Common Phrases and Expressions

skin the cat:

To find different ways to achieve the same goal.

pull the skin off:

To expose something, often painfully or unpleasantly.

skin in the game:

Having a personal investment or stake in a situation.

Related Words

pelt:

The hide or skin of an animal.

flayer:

One who removes the skin, especially from animals.

butcher:

A person who prepares meat for sale.

Slang Meanings of skinner

Meaning: A con artist or fraud.

Example Sentence: He's a real skinner; you can't trust anything he says.

Meaning: Someone who tricks others in a manipulative way.

Example Sentence: Don't let that skinner get to you; he's just trying to pull one over on you.