What does "scouts" mean?

1. (youth organisation) a worldwide organisation for young people that teaches life skills, camping, and community service. 2. (people sent to find information) people sent ahead of a group to look for information or to find the best way to go.

How do you use "scouts"?

Often capitalised when referring to the official organisation.

scouts

US //ˈskaʊts// UK //skˈaʊts// scouts

1 youth organisation (n.)
B1 Intermediate

a worldwide organisation for young people that teaches life skills, camping, and community service.

a global youth movement focused on physical, mental, and spiritual development through outdoor activities and community service.

Example

My brother joined the Scouts to learn how to build a fire and navigate with a compass.

Example

The local troop of Scouts organised a weekend camping trip to practice their survival skills and earn new merit badges.

Usage

Often capitalised when referring to the official organisation.
- boy scouts
- girl scouts
2 people sent to find information (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

people sent ahead of a group to look for information or to find the best way to go.

individuals, often in a military or sports context, sent ahead to gather intelligence or identify talent.

Example

The army sent scouts into the valley to see if the enemy was hiding there.

Example

Several talent scouts from major European football clubs attended the youth tournament to identify promising young players.
- reconnaissance
- lookouts
- talent spotters

Last updated June 20, 2026