poke about
B2 informal intransitive
In simple words
To look around a place by moving things and checking here and there
Literal meaning: To poke things in different directions as you move around a space
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To search through a place casually and without a clear purpose, especially out of curiosity
"We spent an enjoyable afternoon poking about in the antique shops of the old quarter."
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To investigate a situation or subject informally and without authorization
"Someone has been poking about in the company's financial records — we need to find out who."
Usage notes
Primarily British English. Carries a connotation of casual, unhurried, and sometimes nosy exploration. Can describe physical searching (poking about in a drawer) or more general investigation. Almost always used without a direct object.
Commonly used with
drawer attic cupboard market ruins files records
Forms
Base
poke about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pokes about
he/she/it
Past simple
poked about
yesterday
Past participle
poked about
have + pp
-ing form
poking about
continuous
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