ferret around
C1 informal intransitive
In simple words
To look carefully through things, moving them around to try to find something.
Literal meaning: To move around like a ferret searching in burrows.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To search through a place or among objects in a thorough, persistent way.
"He was ferreting around in the attic, looking for his old school photos."
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
To investigate or search for hidden information in a persistent, inquisitive way.
"Detectives were ferreting around for clues in the suspect's financial records."
Usage notes
Used in both British and American English, though more frequent in British. The metaphor comes from a ferret hunting through burrows. Can imply nosiness or investigative persistence. Often followed by 'in' or 'for'.
Commonly used with
drawers records information files archive cupboard
Forms
Base
ferret around
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ferrets around
he/she/it
Past simple
ferreted around
yesterday
Past participle
ferreted around
have + pp
-ing form
ferreting around
continuous
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