search

Search is defined as to look for or examine something.

(verb)

An example of search is to go through a closet looking for an old pair of shoes.

The definition of a search is the process of looking for something or someone.

(noun)

An example of a search is a quest to find a missing person.

See search in Webster's New World College Dictionary

transitive verb

to go over or look through for the purpose of finding something; explore; rummage; examine: to search a house for a lost article
to examine (a person) for something concealed, as by running one's hands over the clothing, through the pockets, etc.
to examine closely and carefully; test and try; probe: to search one's conscience
to look through (writings, records, etc.) to establish certain facts
to find out or uncover by investigation: usually with out

Origin: ME searchen < OFr cercher < LL circare, to go round, go about, explore < circus, a ring: see circus

intransitive verb

noun

an act of searching; scrutiny, inquiry, or examination in an attempt to find something, gain knowledge, establish facts, etc.
the act of a belligerent in stopping and searching a neutral ship for contraband

Related Forms:

See search in American Heritage Dictionary 4

verb searched, search·ing, search·es

verb, transitive

To make a thorough examination of; look over carefully in order to find something; explore.
To make a careful examination or investigation of; probe: search one's conscience for the right solution to the problem.
Law To make a thorough check of (a legal document); scrutinize: search a title.
a. To examine in order to find something lost or concealed.
b. To examine the person or personal effects of in order to find something lost or concealed.
To come to know; learn.

verb, intransitive

To conduct a thorough investigation; seek: were searching for clues.

noun