Definition of "scour" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To clean, polish, or wash (something) by rubbing and scrubbing it vigorously, frequently with an abrasive or cleaning agent.

   • He scoured the burnt food from the pan.

2. (transitive) To remove debris and dirt (from something) by purging; to sweep along or off by a current of water.

3. (transitive, veterinary medicine) To clear the digestive tract (of an animal) by administering medication that induces defecation or vomiting; to purge.

   • to scour a horse

4. (ambitransitive, veterinary medicine) To (cause livestock to) suffer from diarrhoea or dysentery.

   • If a lamb is scouring, do not delay treatment.

5. (ambitransitive, obsolete) To cleanse (something) without rubbing.

noun

1. The removal of sediment caused by swiftly moving water.

   • Bridge scour may scoop out scour holes and compromise the integrity of the structure.

2. A place scoured out by running water, as in the bed of a stream below a waterfall.

3. A place where wool is washed to remove grease and impurities prior to processing.

4. Diarrhoea, in livestock; scouring.

verb

1. (transitive) To search an area thoroughly.

   • They scoured the scene of the crime for clues.
   • A search engine will scour the web for you.

2. (intransitive) To run with speed; to scurry.

3. (transitive) To move swiftly over; to brush along.