Beat the bushes

Meaning

Search thoroughly, especially for people or resources.

Usage

Used when describing a wide, energetic search.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Hunting practice of beating bushes to flush game.

Used in American hunting reports in the nineteenth century.