root about
To dig around and look through things trying to find something — like how a pig or dog digs with its nose.
Meanings
To search through a place or a group of objects by moving things around in a disorganised or energetic way.
"She was rooting about in her handbag, trying to find her keys."
(Of an animal) to dig or push through soil or material with the snout.
"The boar was rooting about under the oak tree looking for acorns."
Primarily British English. The image is of an animal (especially a pig) using its snout to dig in the ground. Used for humans when they are searching in an untidy or energetic way through cupboards, bags, or drawers. Often implies the search makes things messy.
Commonly used with
Forms
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