Scoured: meaning, definitions and examples
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scoured
[ ˈskaʊərd ]
search thoroughly
To scour means to search something very carefully and thoroughly. It often involves examining or exploring an area or a group of items in detail to locate something specific or to gather information. The term can also apply to cleaning or scrubbing a surface to remove dirt or grime. When scouring for information or resources, individuals may go through numerous sources, checking each one minutely to ensure nothing is missed.
Synonyms
explore, rummage, scrub, search
Examples of usage
- She scoured the library for the rare book.
- The detective scoured the crime scene for clues.
- They scoured the internet for the best deals.
- He scoured the city in search of his lost dog.
Word origin
The word 'scoured' derives from the Old Norse word 'skúra', which means to clean or wash. Its usage in Middle English evolved to describe both the action of cleaning and the act of searching thoroughly. Scouring was traditionally associated with cleaning dishes, cookware, and other household items. Over time, the meaning expanded to include searching diligently for information or objects, likely due to the meticulous nature involved in both cleaning and searching activities. The verb form gained popularity in various contexts, illustrating the link between thoroughness in cleaning and searching.