scalp
scalp / To remove the scalp from a person's head, typically as a trophy of war. / To remove the outer layer or skin from something, such as a plant or a piece of material. / To buy tickets for an event at a low price and resell them at a much higher price for profit.
NounTransitive Verb
pl: scalpspast: scalpedpp: scalpeding: scalping
The term carries a stark duality between biological anatomy and violent historical practice. In a medical or grooming context, it refers simply to the skin of the head, but it evokes a visceral image of brutality when used as a verb to describe the removal of skin as a trophy. In modern commercial contexts, the word has shifted toward financial exploitation. When applied to tickets or limited-edition goods, it describes a predatory form of arbitrage where the seller profits from artificial scarcity and high demand.
Meanings
Nounscalp
The skin and hair on the top of the human head.
"He massaged his scalp to relieve the tension."
Transitive VerbTo remove the scalp from a person's head, typically as a trophy of war.
[~ someone]
Transitive VerbTo remove the outer layer or skin from something, such as a plant or a piece of material.
[~ something]