Definition

To search through something in a way that causes disorder, often looking for something valuable or to steal.

Example

The thieves ransacked the house, leaving everything in a mess.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the break-in at the old house down the street?

Yeah, I can't believe they would ransack such a place.

I wonder what they were looking for in there.

Probably just some old valuables or forgotten treasures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ransack → It is formed from "ran" (from Old Norse *rannsaka*, meaning to search a house) and "sack" (from Old English *sæc*, meaning bag). The word describes the act of searching a place thoroughly, often with the intent to steal or plunder, as if one is searching through bags for valuables.

Memory Tip

Imagine searching through a house ('ran') as if you are looking for treasures to put in a bag ('sack'). This helps you remember that 'ransack' means to search a place thoroughly, often in a chaotic manner.

Visually Confused Words