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Showing results for ferret out. Search instead for herrenwort.
Definitions

ferret out

VERB
search out
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ascertain bring to light drive out get at sniff out uncover unearth
WEAK
be on to chase chase down determine dig out dig up disclose discover elicit extract follow hunt hunt down learn nose out penetrate pick up on pierce probe pry pursue quest root out scout out search out seek smell out smoke out trace track down trail worm out

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Paul McCartney emerged from the wreckage of the Fab Four in 1970, eager to ferret out a fresh sound.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

They’re all law-abiding people, and this directive ostensibly aims to ferret out terrorists and criminals.

From Slate • Dec. 17, 2025

We will ferret out students who protest against my policies.

From Salon • Oct. 18, 2025

The so-called Department of Government Efficiency set up its own internal team at the agency to ferret out information from its files.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2025

"This island's more or less a bare rock. We shall make short work of searching it. We'll soon ferret out U. N. Owen, Esq."

From "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie