plural searches
1
: an attempt to find someone or something : the act or process of looking for someone or something
a thorough/exhaustive/quick search
We will begin/launch/conduct a search for a new manager this week.
A search and rescue team [=a group of people trained to find and help lost people] was sent out for the hikers.
—often + forThe search for the crew was called off.
Police are continuing their search for the killer.
Scientists are in search of the answer. [=scientists are searching for the answer]
2
: an attempt to find information in a database, network, Web site, etc., by using a computer program
I performed a search for the file.
I did a Web search for restaurants in that area.
searches; searched; searching
1
a
: to carefully look for someone or something : to try to find someone or something
They haven't found him yet, so they have to keep searching.
They searched among/through the wreckage (for survivors).
We searched [=looked] everywhere but we couldn't find the keys.
—often + forThey're still searching for the lost child.
—often used figurativelyScientists are searching for a cure. [=are doing research to try to find a cure]
He searched for the words to comfort her. [=he tried to think of words that he could say to comfort her]
She searched for an answer to his question.
b
: to carefully look for someone or something in (something)
Police searched the vehicle.
—often + forHe searched his room for his wallet.
c
: to carefully look through the clothing of (someone) for something that may be hidden
The police searched her for concealed weapons.
He was searched by the guard before he was allowed to enter the courtroom.
2
: to use a computer to find information in (a database, network, Web site, etc.)
The software allows you to search thousands of sites at the same time.
—often + forShe searched the Web for information about the car.
She searched for information on the Web.
3
: to look carefully at (something) in order to get information about it
He searched her face, hoping to see some glimmer of emotion.
Cite this Entry
“Search.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/search. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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