English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

verb

scavenge

SKAV-ihnj

Scavenge (verb) means to search through discarded material for something useful. Example: “They scavenged for firewood along the riverbank.”

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verb

1

To search through discarded material for something useful.

"They scavenged for firewood along the riverbank."

"The stray dogs scavenged for food behind the restaurant."

How to use scavenge

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo search through waste or leftovers for something useful, or to feed on scraps.

Common pairings

scavenge for food scavenge parts

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

scavenged past tense, scavenges singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

They _____ for firewood along the riverbank.

Etymology

Formed as a back-formation from "scavenger."

Synonyms

clean salvage

Related words

save clean fresh drunk empty pure dirty fairly

Rhymes for scavenge

avenge revenge challenge Stonehenge

See all rhymes for scavenge →

Frequently asked questions

What does “scavenge” mean?

The word “scavenge” means to search through discarded material for something useful. In plain terms, to search through waste or leftovers for something useful, or to feed on scraps.

How do you pronounce “scavenge”?

“Scavenge” is pronounced SKAV-ihnj (/ˈskæv.ɪndʒ/ in IPA).

How do you use “scavenge” in a sentence?

Here is “scavenge” used in a sentence: “They scavenged for firewood along the riverbank.”

What part of speech is “scavenge”?

“Scavenge” is a verb.

People also searched

save clean fresh drunk empty pure dirty fairly

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial