scrounge

American  

[skrounj] / skraʊndʒ /

Also scrounger

verb (used with object)

scrounged, scrounging

1. to borrow (a small amount or item) with no intention of repaying or returning it.

   to scrounge a cigarette.

2. to gather together by foraging; seek out.

   We'll try to scrounge enough food for supper from the neighbors.

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verb (used without object)

scrounged, scrounging

1. to borrow, especially a small item one is not expected to return or replace.

noun

1. a habitual borrower; sponger.

2. an act or instance of scrounging.

3. a person who exists by foraging.

verb phrase

1. scrounge around to search or forage for something, especially in a haphazard or disorganized fashion; hunt for.

   We scrounged around for something to eat.

scrounge British  

/ skraʊndʒ /

verb

1. to search in order to acquire (something) without cost

2. to obtain or seek to obtain (something) by cadging or begging

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Other Word Forms

• scrounger noun

Etymology

Origin of scrounge

First recorded in 1905–10; alteration of dial. scringe to glean

Example Sentences

While some landlords offer a short grace period for renters to scrounge together enough cash, fintech companies are offering a different deal: split your rent into installments throughout the month.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 13, 2026

Presumably the gambit is to catch Mr. Powell for lying to Congress regarding the office renovations or scrounge for details in search of some other so far undetected offense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

The sport is a refuge for Claressa, who has a chaotic family life and often has to scrounge for food, and she bonds closely with her coach.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 12, 2024

"They occasionally did try and slip out up to the production office and see if they could scrounge some cooked chicken rather than having to cook it themselves," Huffam revealed.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2024

In the few short minutes it took to scrounge up some food, the plate on the table had grown hot to the touch.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson