scratch around (forsomething)

scratch about (for something) & scratch around (forsomething)

1. Lit. to hunt for something in dirt, gravel, rocks, etc. •

The prospector spent the day scratching about for signs of gold.

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The chickens were scratching around for something to eat.

2. Fig. to look very hard for something. •

The children were scratching about the kitchen for something to eat.

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I've been scratching around for a new assistant for months now.