Scavenger Meaning and Definition
Scavenger
Pronunciation
/ˈskæv.əndʒər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who searches for and collects valuable or useful items, especially in a thorough and meticulous way.
Etymology
The word “Scavenger” originated from the Middle English word “scavenge”, meaning “to search for and gather”, which is derived from the Old French word “escavenger”, from the Latin “scavere”, meaning “to clear away”.
Usage Notes
This word is often used to describe someone who searches for items of value, such as a treasure hunter or a prospector. It can also be used more broadly to describe someone who is thorough and meticulous in their search for information or resources.
Cultural References
The word “Scavenger” has been used in popular culture, such as in the 1991 film “City Slickers”, where the main character, Mitch Robbins, plays a scavenger hunt.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Scavenger hunt” – a type of game or activity where players search for and collect items.
Related Words or Phrases
- Prospector
- Treasure hunter
- Searcher
- Forager
Collocations
- Scavenger hunt
- Scavenger code
- Scavenger list
Frequency of Use
The word “Scavenger” is not as commonly used as some other words, but it is still used in various contexts, particularly in reference to searching for valuable or useful items.
Common Misspellings
- Scavenger
- Scabenger
- Skavenger