verb

scavenge

SKAV-ihnj

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

verb

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

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

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clean salvage

Related words

save clean fresh drunk empty pure dirty fairly

Rhymes for scavenge

avenge revenge challenge Stonehenge

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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.

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save clean fresh drunk empty pure dirty fairly