scavenge
verb (used with object)
to take or gather (something usable) from discarded material.
have been scavenging
-
present perfect progressiveof scavenge.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
Just like when Swift releases new music and her lyrics are dissected for any hints about her personal life, her legion of fans around the world have been scavenging for clues to her nuptials.
From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026
In northern Gaza, the IPC report noted, people have been scavenging from destroyed buildings and eating animal feed, but even those resources are running out.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 30, 2024
It is not known what happened to whatever was on the kebab stick, but his owners said Sweep had been on a diet and "may have been scavenging".
From BBC ● May 27, 2018
Bald eagles have been scavenging the contaminated birds, and the sound's population of 3,000 eagles may therefore be at risk.
From Time Magazine Archive
Families have been scavenging for wild roots and plants to supplement meager diets.
From Time Magazine Archive
