# scoop

/ˈskup/ (US) · /skˈuːp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scoop
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a tool

noun · CEFR B1

a tool shaped like a small bowl with a handle, used for picking up things like ice cream, flour, or soil.

For teachers: a cup-shaped or bowl-shaped implement with a handle, designed for lifting and moving loose or soft materials.

- She used a large metal scoop to serve the mashed potatoes.
- The baker kept a plastic scoop inside each flour bin to ensure consistent measurements during the morning rush.

### 2. an amount

noun · CEFR B1

the amount of something that fits into a scoop.

For teachers: the quantity or volume of material held by a specific scoop.

- Add one scoop of protein powder to your water and shake it well.
- The recipe specifically calls for two level scoops of cocoa powder to achieve the desired richness in the cake.

### 3. exclusive news

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

an exciting news story that is reported by one person or newspaper before anyone else.

For teachers: an exclusive news story or piece of information obtained and published before any competing media outlets.

- The local reporter got a big scoop about the mayor's secret plans.
- The investigative journalist spent months undercover to land the scoop on the corporate embezzlement scandal.

### 4. to pick up

verb · CEFR B1

to pick something up quickly or using a tool.

For teachers: to lift, move, or collect something with a scoop or in a similar sweeping motion.

- He managed to scoop the fallen leaves into a large bag.
- She reached down to scoop the toddler into her arms before he could run toward the busy street.

### 5. to beat others to a story

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to publish a news story before any other reporters can.

For teachers: to report a news item before a rival journalist or organisation.

- Our paper managed to scoop the national news on the local election results.
- By cultivating a network of anonymous sources, the young reporter frequently managed to scoop more established veterans in the press corps.

### 6. music pitch

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a note that starts a little bit lower than it should and slides up to the right sound.

For teachers: a vocal or instrumental note that begins slightly below the target pitch and slides upward.

- The singer added a little scoop to the beginning of the chorus.
- The jazz vocalist's signature style involved a subtle scoop on the opening note of every ballad, creating a soulful, relaxed atmosphere.

## Examples

- What is the scoop on the new office manager?
- The reporter managed to get the inside scoop on the celebrity's secret wedding before any other news outlet.
- While the official press release was vague, the local papers were already printing the full scoop on the mayor's sudden resignation and the scandal behind it.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.