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."
poke about
B2 informal intransitive
To explore or search a place or situation casually, often out of curiosity
In plain English
To look around a place by moving things and checking here and there
What does "poke about" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To poke things in different directions as you move around a space
Actually means
To look around a place by moving things and checking here and there
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "poke about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
drawer attic cupboard market ruins files records
How to conjugate "poke about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "poke about" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "poke about" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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