The phrase "skimming top" refers to a specific action of removing the surface layer of something. There are several synonyms for this phrase that can be used depending on the context. Some of the most common synonyms include "skimming off," "removing the top layer," "scraping off," and "taking off the surface layer." These phrases are often used in cooking contexts where one might want to remove a layer of fat from a broth or soup, or in cleaning contexts where one might want to remove a layer of dirt or debris from a surface. Regardless of context, the synonyms for "skimming top" provide a useful way to describe this action.