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Definitions

scavenge

[skav-inj] / ˈskæv ɪndʒ /
VERB
forage
Synonyms
STRONGEST
comb rummage scour scrounge
STRONG
beat explore grub hunt pilfer plunder raid rake ransack ravage seek
WEAK
cast about fine-tooth-comb
Antonyms
STRONG
aid assist give guard help neglect protect receive
VERB
search
Synonyms
STRONGEST
check comb examine explore go through hunt hunt for inspect investigate look probe ransack scan scour scout scrutinize seek sift
STRONG
beat ferret forage frisk grope grub inquire prospect pry quest rake root rummage study
WEAK
beat about cast about chase after go in quest of go over with a fine-tooth comb gun for leave no stone unturned look for look high and low look over poke into rifle through run down shake down smell around track down turn inside out turn upside down
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore neglect overlook
STRONG
cover
WEAK
find

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The study's findings suggest the birds are doing more than just tracking the hunters: they're using navigation and spatial memory techniques to scavenge with sophistication.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

Cougars, however, rarely scavenge from other carnivores and are skilled hunters on their own, leaving scientists uncertain about what truly shapes their interactions with wolves.

From Science Daily • Mar. 3, 2026

When they aren’t thieving, bald eagles also scavenge from roadkill or help themselves to free food found in human garbage or at the town landfill.

From Slate • Feb. 21, 2026

Hermit crabs - so named because they scavenge shells to live in - can regularly be seen on the beaches of the popular tourist destination.

From BBC • May 11, 2025

But Neel guessed the cub would be too terrified to venture out of her hiding place, except maybe to scavenge for food.

From "Tiger Boy" by Mitali Perkins