seek

[seek]

verb (used with object)

sought, seeking 

1. to go in search or quest of.

   to seek the truth.

2. to try to find or discover by searching or questioning.

   to seek the solution to a problem.

3. to try to obtain.

   to seek fame.

   Synonyms: follow, pursue

4. to try or attempt (usually followed by an infinitive).

   to seek to convince a person.

5. to go to.

   to seek a place to rest.

6. to ask for; request.

   to seek advice.

7. Archaic.,  to search or explore.

verb (used without object)

sought, seeking 

1. to make inquiry.

seek

/ siːk /

verb

1. to try to find by searching; look for

   to seek a solution

2. (also intr) to try to obtain or acquire

   to seek happiness

3. to attempt (to do something); try

   I'm only seeking to help

4. (also intr) to enquire about or request (something)

   to seek help

5. to go or resort to

   to seek the garden for peace

6. an archaic word for explore

Other Word Forms

• outseek verb (used with object)
• reseek verb (used with object)
• unseeking adjective
• seeker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of seek¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English seken, Old English sēcan; cognate with German suchen, Old Norse sœkja, Gothic sōkjan; akin to Latin sāgīre “to perceive by scent” ( presage, sagacity ); beseech

Word History and Origins

Origin of seek¹

Old English sēcan; related to Old Norse sōkja, Gothic sōkjan, Old High German suohhen, Latin sāgīre to perceive by scent; see _beseech

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. be sought after, to be desired or in demand.

   Graduates in the physical sciences are most sought after by employers these days.

see play hide and seek.

Example Sentences

He argued that whisky was "very high" up the list of priorities for the UK as it seeks further trade concessions from the US and warned Swinney against "playing politics".

From BBC

Prosecutors will seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old man accused of killing Charlie Kirk with a single shot at Utah Valley University, officials announced Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Prosecutors say Potra is currently not in the country and may seek asylum in Russia.

From BBC

In truth, our cities show the beauty and promise of this idea, where people from all over the world can gather to seek prosperity, share their cultures, and make it work.

From Los Angeles Times

The petition rejected this week was one of three paths the Menendez legal team has pursued in seeking freedom for the brothers.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• explore 
• follow 
• investigate 
• pursue