Pronunciation: [skˈalps] (IPA) 
The word "scalps" is spelled with the letters 's', 'c', 'a', 'l', 'p', and 's'. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /skælps/. The 's' sounds like a voiceless sibilant, the 'c' sounds like a voiceless velar fricative, the 'a' sounds like a short vowel, the 'l' sounds like a voiced alveolar lateral approximant, the 'p' sounds like a voiceless bilabial stop, and the final 's' sounds like a voiceless sibilant.
Scalps (noun)
1. The skins of the top of the head, including the hair, usually removed from a human or animal as a trophy or in a ritualistic manner.
2. In Native American cultures, scalps referred to the act or practice of removing the scalp from an enemy as a symbol of bravery and victory in warfare. This practice was often used by various tribes as a method of intimidation and to assert dominance over rival groups. The scalps were often preserved and displayed as trophies or offered as proof of one's valor. The taking of scalps was deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, with some tribes believing that scalping the enemy prevented their souls from reaching the afterlife and ensured eternal torment.
3. In a broader context, scalps can also refer to the act of forcibly gaining an advantage or reaping benefit from another person or situation, often by exploiting or taking advantage of someone's vulnerability or weakness. This usage is commonly associated with economic or financial contexts, where excessive profits or gains are made at the expense of others.
4. In slang or informal use, the term "scalps" can also be used to mean defeating or outperforming someone in a particular competition, especially in sports or games. It implies a significant victory or achievement over an opponent, often achieved by a wide margin.
The word "scalps" originates from the Old Norse word "skalli" meaning "bald head" or "scalp". In Old English, it evolved into "scealp" and eventually transitioned into "scalp" in Middle English. The verb form of the word, meaning the act of removing the scalp, appeared in the early 16th century.
