# root around

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/root-around
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to search for something by moving other things around, usually in a drawer, bag, or box. You use this when you are looking for something small and hidden.

For teachers: to search for something by moving or turning over various items, typically within a container or confined space. Often implies a disorganized or physical search; the verb is intransitive and frequently takes a prepositional phrase.

## Examples

- I had to root around in my bag to find my keys.
- She spent ten minutes rooting around in the attic looking for the old family photo album.
- The investigator began to root around in the discarded files, hoping to uncover a shred of evidence that the previous team had overlooked.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I rooted around my keys." but "I rooted around for my keys." — the verb is intransitive and requires 'for' to introduce the object being searched for.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by 'in' for the location or 'for' for the object being sought.
- Teaching tip: link the verb to the image of an animal digging with its snout to help students remember the physical nature of the search.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.