scavenge
verb (used with object)
to take or gather (something usable) from discarded material.
had scavenged
-
past perfectof scavenge.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Under the floorboards of her closet, Smith conceals “glittering refuse I had scavenged from trash bins, fragments of costume jewelry, rosary beads,” along with a blue toothbrush she’s invested with magical powers.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 31, 2025
Ranchers reported no predators or birds had scavenged the remains, the Sheriff’s office said.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 23, 2023
Cecilia wanted soap, so Espy handed her a bar she had scavenged from the nearby shelter.
From New York Times ● Mar. 19, 2023
Volunteers had scavenged the wood to build the house and had painted murals on the outer walls.
From The New Yorker ● Jun. 24, 2019
I couldn't walk into that room with the smoky fire from the damp branches I had scavenged at the edge of the woods after the coal had run out, my bands empty of any hope.
From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins
