seek

American  

[seek] / sik /

verb (used with object)

sought, seeking

1. to go in search or quest of.

   to seek the truth.

2. to try to find or discover by searching or questioning.

   to seek the solution to a problem.

3. to try to obtain.

   to seek fame.

   Synonyms:

   follow, pursue

4. to try or attempt (usually followed by an infinitive).

   to seek to convince a person.

5. to go to.

   to seek a place to rest.

6. to ask for; request.

   to seek advice.

7. Archaic. to search or explore.

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verb (used without object)

sought, seeking

1. to make inquiry.

idioms

1. be sought after, to be desired or in demand.

   Graduates in the physical sciences are most sought after by employers these days.

seek British  

/ siːk /

verb

1. to try to find by searching; look for

   to seek a solution

2. (also intr) to try to obtain or acquire

   to seek happiness

3. to attempt (to do something); try

   I'm only seeking to help

4. (also intr) to enquire about or request (something)

   to seek help

5. to go or resort to

   to seek the garden for peace

6. an archaic word for explore

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seek More Idioms  

1. see play hide and seek.

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Other Word Forms

• outseek verb (used with object)
• reseek verb (used with object)
• seeker noun
• unseeking adjective

Etymology

Origin of seek

First recorded before 900; Middle English seken, Old English sēcan; cognate with German suchen, Old Norse sœkja, Gothic sōkjan; akin to Latin sāgīre “to perceive by scent” ( presage, sagacity ); beseech

Example Sentences

Yes, it’s frustrating that someone with millions of dollars writes to this column, seeking advice perhaps about how to make withdrawals while minimizing their income taxes.

From MarketWatch

It said Marinakis, who also owns Greek football giants Olympiacos, is "someone who loves sport and supports it in tangible ways without seeking reciprocal benefits."

From Barron's

He noted that one idea about why animals might seek out ethanol is that its smell helps them locate foods that are richer in sugar and thus provide more energy.

From Science Daily

Investigations are continuing into the club's conduct during the current season, but the EFL says it is not seeking to deduct any further points.

From BBC

The Central Council of Jews in Germany and the Jewish Claims Conference, an organization seeking compensation for Holocaust survivors, support the new system and were involved in its conception.

From Barron's

Related Words

• explore
• follow
• investigate
• pursue