pond scum

• Abwertende umgangssprachliche Bezeichnung für eine verachtenswerte, widerwärtige oder wertlose Person, bildlich verglichen mit den grünen Algen oder dem Schleim auf stehenden Gewässern.

A derogatory slang term used to insult someone, comparing them to the unpleasant green algae or slime that forms on the surface of stagnant ponds. It implies the person is worthless, disgusting, or contemptible.

1. Literal: Algae on waterB1formal

   A layer of algae or other small plants that forms on the surface of stagnant or slow-moving water.

   Algen auf stehendem Gewässer

   • The pond was covered in a thick layer of green pond scum.
   • Pond scum can be a sign of nutrient pollution in the water.
   • We had to clean the pond scum off the surface before swimming.

2. Slang: InsultC1slangamerican

   A highly offensive term used to describe a person or group considered worthless, contemptible, or despicable.

   Abschaum

   • He called the corrupt politician 'pond scum' during the argument.
   • Those cheaters are nothing but pond scum.
   • Don't listen to him; he's pond scum.