Scratch about

usgb
verb

To search around or rummage, usually in a hurried or impatient way.

He was scratching about in the drawer looking for his keys.
Visual representation of "scratch about" - To search around or rummage, usually in a hurried or impatient way.

Often appears as...

  • scratch about for answers
  • scratch about in the drawer

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "scratch about"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Hasty Searching

Implies looking for something quickly without being organized.

Illustration for Hasty Searching
She scratched about the office for her lost report.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Impatience Implied

Suggests the person is getting frustrated or desperate while looking.

Illustration for Impatience Implied
The kids were scratching about for their toys before the trip.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Visual Intensity

Often used to create a vivid picture of someone rummaging through something.

Illustration for Visual Intensity
He was scratching about the attic, sweat on his brow.
Visual representation of the word "Scratch about"

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