dig up
Idioms-
Search out, find, obtain, as in I'm sure I can dig up a few more supporters . [Mid-1800s]
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. Find derogatory information about someone or something. For example, The editor assigned him to dig up all the dirt on the candidates . The slangy use of the noun dirt for “embarrassing or scandalous information” dates from about 1840, but this metaphoric expression is a century newer.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In 2024, Attanasio’s construction team was accused of using excavators to dig up sand from Broad Beach and carry it back to his property as part of a beachfront development.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 4, 2026
While the information out there can be conflicting and confusing, I’ll dig up answers and advice you can trust through rigorous research and reporting.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 4, 2026
In Tunick's case, "law enforcement seemingly took advantage of the relaxed constitutional protections at the border to try to dig up evidence" against him, his lawyers said.
From Barron's ● Jul. 29, 2026
So the next time that they come in and pull somebody out of central casting, they just would want to hire better lawyers to dig up dirt on their own candidate.
From Salon ● Jul. 10, 2026
I looked at the islands scattered along the lower half of Mr. Patterson’s map and settled into the back seat to dig up a postcard for Fred.
From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
