1. (

• ransacking ,
• rummage

) a thorough search for something (often causing disorder or confusion); "he gave the attic a good rummage but couldn't find his skis" ;

1. (

• plunder ,
• despoil ,
• loot ,
• reave ,
• strip ,
• rifle ,
• ransack ,
• pillage ,
• foray

) steal goods; take as spoils; "During the earthquake people looted the stores that were deserted by their owners" ;

2. (

• comb ,
• ransack ,

) search thoroughly; "They combed the area for the missing child" ;