phrasal verb
scoot over
skoot OH-vuhr
Scoot over (phrasal verb) means to shift sideways while seated or lying down, usually to make room for someone else. Example: “Scoot over, I want to sit down.”
phrasal verb
1
informal To shift sideways while seated or lying down, usually to make room for someone else.
"Scoot over, I want to sit down."
"She scooted over on the sofa so the dog could get on."
How to use scoot over
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSlide along a seat to make space.
When to use it
Informal and spoken; chiefly North American, though widely understood.
Memory tip
Scooch over is a common variant and means the same.
Easily confused with
budge up
move over
scooch over
Common pairings
scoot over a bit
scoot over and make room
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_____, I want to sit down.
Synonyms
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shift over
move over
budge up
shove over
slide over
Rhymes for scoot over
See all rhymes for scoot over →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between scoot over and move over?
They mean the same thing, but scoot over implies a small shuffling movement while still sitting or lying, and it sounds friendlier and more American. Move over is neutral and works for anything, including a car changing lane.
Is scoot over rude?
Not in itself, though it is a direct request. Adding please or a bit softens it: scoot over a bit, would you?
What is the British equivalent of scoot over?
Budge up, or shove up. Both are informal and mean exactly the same thing.
What is the meaning of scoot over?
"scoot over" (phrasal verb) means to shift sideways while seated or lying down, usually to make room for someone else.
