1. to search for and collect discarded or usable items
2. to feed on dead or decaying organic matter
Usage: biology
3. to remove unwanted substances from something
Usage: technical

Examples

• The children scavenged for bottles and cans to recycle.
• Vultures scavenge dead animals in the wild.
• After the storm, people scavenged through the debris for salvageable items.
• Hyenas often scavenge the remains left by lions.
• The homeless man had to scavenge for food in dumpsters.
• The engine uses a pump to scavenge oil from the system.
• Crabs scavenge along the ocean floor for organic matter.