"scour" Definition

Definitions for the word "scour" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v. t.
To rub hard with something rough, as sand or Bristol brick, especially for the purpose of cleaning; to clean by friction; to make clean or bright; to cleanse from grease, dirt, etc., as articles of dress.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
To purge; as, to scour a horse.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v. t.
To remove by rubbing or cleansing; to sweep along or off; to carry away or remove, as by a current of water; -- often with off or away.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. t.
To pass swiftly over; to brush along; to traverse or search thoroughly; as, to scour the coast.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v. i.
To clean anything by rubbing.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. v. i.
To cleanse anything.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. v. i.
To be purged freely; to have a diarrhoea.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. v. i.
To run swiftly; to rove or range in pursuit or search of something; to scamper.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. n.
Diarrhoea or dysentery among cattle.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. v.
1 a cleanse by rubbing. B (usu. Foll. By away, off, etc.) Clear (rust, stains, etc.) By rubbing etc. 2 clear out (a pipe, channel, etc.) By flushing through. n. Scouring or being scoured. scourer n. [french escurer]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
11. v.
Search thoroughly, esp. By scanning (scoured the streets for him; scoured the newspaper). [origin unknown]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "scour" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "scour" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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