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

Instead, Biden administration officials say they are scrounging for money for pandemic preparedness.

From New York Times

This observation explains, for example, why, while Nigerians pay for groceries with bitcoin, I’ve recently had to scrounge up hard cash to pay for food and bus fare in major world cities.

From Washington Post

He recognized his own tendency to scrounge chalk and rubbish to eat, which had always made him feel as if he were going crazy.

From Washington Post

Even so, a hefty new contract for Middleton would bring complications, as the Bucks were already struggling to scrounge together a supporting cast with their current commitments to Antetokounmpo, Middleton and Holiday.

From Washington Post

At least the celery grass they scrounged abated their scurvy.

From Washington Post