peruse

[puh-rooz]

verb (used with object)

perused, perusing 

1. to read through with thoroughness or care.

   Make sure you peruse the document before signing.

2. to scan or browse: Visitors will be able to peruse artworks by young people across the state.

   Sometimes I peruse the magazines near the cash register while waiting to check out.

   Visitors will be able to peruse artworks by young people across the state.

3. to read.

   If romantic plots interest you, consider perusing her latest novel.

4. to survey or examine in detail.

   We had the opportunity to hear both sides and peruse the evidence.

peruse

/ pəˈruːz /

verb

1. to read or examine with care; study

2. to browse or read through in a leisurely way

Other Word Forms

• perusable adjective
• peruser noun
• preperuse verb (used with object)
• quasi-perusable adjective
• reperuse verb (used with object)
• unperusable adjective
• unperused adjective
• perusal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of peruse¹

First recorded in 1470–80 in the sense “use up, go through”; first recorded in 1525–35 for current senses; per- + use

Word History and Origins

Origin of peruse¹

C15 (meaning: to use up): from _per- (intensive) + _use

Example Sentences

Other workplace issues frame the union fight ahead, such as a properly functioning air conditioning system coming off the heels of a sweltering summer when people crowded the store to peruse its products.

From Los Angeles Times

The land surrounding Frankenstein’s castle is a joy to peruse, as spooky imagery is used to hint at something more mystical.

From Los Angeles Times

So next time you’re in the herb aisle, perusing the verdant options, bypass the usual suspects.

From Salon

For the “Survivor” host and executive producer, a perfect day includes playing tennis, perusing the vinyls at Freakbeat Records and finding small ways to connect with his family.

From Los Angeles Times

He says he perused various theatre scripts and Second Best caught his eye.

From BBC

Related Words

• analyze 
• browse 
• inspect 
• look through 
• pore over www.thesaurus.com
• scan 
• scrutinize 
• skim