foraging

[fawr-i-jing, for-]

noun

1. the acquisition of food by hunting, fishing, or the gathering of plant matter.

adjective

1. characterized by or dependent upon the acquisition of food by such means; food-gathering.

   a foraging people.

Word History and Origins

Origin of foraging¹

First recorded in 1480–90; forage ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun, forage ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective

Example Sentences

More than two decades ago, Dudley proposed that humans' interest in alcohol has deep roots in primate evolution and stems from ancient foraging habits.

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Continued research will connect specific vocalizations to particular behaviors, including foraging, movement, social interactions, and reproduction.

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Mr Williamson, a County Armagh beekeeper, said this behaviour typically takes place from mid to late summer and can prevent bees from foraging, causing them to starve.

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His connection to fungi became clearer to me when, on a side table, I spotted copies of his book and a calendar, both extolling the joy and connection to nature that comes from foraging naked.

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It was during her time in the rainforest reserve at Gombe, in Tanzania, when she stopped to spend time watching a male chimpanzee who was foraging.

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