Scout

/skaʊt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person sent out to gain information, especially in military contexts.

The scout reported back with valuable information about the enemy's position.

A person who inspects or explores an area to gather information.

She worked as a talent scout for a major record label.

A member of the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts.

He earned his Eagle Scout badge after completing his project.

verb

To search for or explore an area for information or resources.

They were sent to scout the location for their upcoming camping trip.

To search for potential talent or opportunities.

The coach went to scout new players for the basketball team.

Middle French 'escuier' meaning 'to examine' or 'to watch'.

scout around

To search here and there for something.

scout out

To search or explore in order to gather information.

couch scout

A slang term for someone who observes or scouts from a comfortable position.

scouting

The act of exploring or searching for information.

scoutmaster

A leader in a scouting organization.

reconnaissance

Military observation of a region to locate an enemy or ascertain strategic features.

To check something out

Let's scout this place for the party tonight.

To spy on or observe someone covertly

He was caught trying to scout his friends' conversations.