Seek: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
February 11, 2026

1. Seek (verb): To attempt to find, obtain, or achieve something.
2. Seek (verb): To search for someone or something actively.
3. Seek (verb): To ask for or request advice, assistance, or information.
4. Seek (verb): To pursue a goal, ambition, or aspiration.

The word "seek" is commonly used to describe the act of searching for something, whether it be an object, information, or a goal. It is widely used in various contexts, including personal, professional, and philosophical discussions. Below is a detailed breakdown of its meanings, pronunciation, examples, and more.

"Seek" Definition: What Does "Seek" Mean?

The word "seek" conveys the act of searching, requesting, or pursuing something actively. Below are its primary meanings and contexts.

Definition of "Seek": Attempting to Find or Achieve

"Seek" is commonly used when someone is trying to find or achieve a specific goal, object, or outcome.

Definition of "Seek": Searching for Someone or Something

It also refers to physically or mentally searching for a person, place, or thing, often with a determined effort.

Definition of "Seek": Requesting Advice or Assistance

"Seek" is frequently used when someone is looking for guidance, help, or information from others.

Definition of "Seek": Pursuing an Ambition or Purpose

It can also describe the pursuit of dreams, aspirations, or abstract goals such as happiness or wisdom.

Parts of Speech

"Seek" is a verb that describes an action. It is used in different grammatical tenses, including "seeking" (present participle), "sought" (past and past participle), and "seeks" (third-person singular). It does not have a noun or adjective form but is related to terms like "seeker" and "seeking."

How to Pronounce "Seek"?

The word "seek" is pronounced as a single syllable: "SEEK."

To pronounce "seek" correctly, start with the "s" sound, followed by a long "ee" vowel sound, ending with a hard "k." The pronunciation is smooth and clear.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /siːk/

Synonyms of "Seek": Other Ways to Say "Seek"

Depending on the context, "seek" has many synonyms that convey searching, pursuing, or requesting.

  • Search
  • Look for
  • Pursue
  • Strive for
  • Request
  • Ask for
  • Investigate
  • Explore
  • Chase
  • Hunt

Antonyms of "Seek": Other Ways to Say "Seek"

Words that contrast with "seek" describe avoiding, ignoring, or rejecting something.

  • Ignore
  • Dismiss
  • Avoid
  • Reject
  • Overlook
  • Disregard
  • Refuse
  • Neglect
  • Evade
  • Shun

Examples of "Seek" in a Sentence

Here are ten examples demonstrating different uses of "seek."

  1. He traveled across the world to seek wisdom from different cultures.
  2. The police continue to seek clues regarding the missing person.
  3. She decided to seek legal advice before signing the contract.
  4. The company is actively seeking new employees for its expansion.
  5. Many people seek happiness through relationships and personal growth.
  6. They sought shelter from the storm in an abandoned cabin.
  7. Students seek scholarships to help fund their education.
  8. The detective sought the truth behind the mysterious disappearance.
  9. He seeks approval from his peers before making important decisions.
  10. We must always seek knowledge to grow and improve.

Frequency of Use

The word "seek" is commonly used in both spoken and written English, particularly in formal and professional settings. It frequently appears in literature, academic discussions, and philosophical writings due to its broad meaning related to searching and striving.

Variants of "Seek"

"Seek" has a few grammatical variants that change its tense and usage.

  1. Sought: The past tense and past participle of "seek," used to describe a completed action.
  2. Seeking: The present participle, indicating an ongoing process of searching.
  3. Seeks: The third-person singular form is used when referring to one subject.

Related Terms to "Seek"

Several words and phrases are closely related to "seek" in meaning and usage.

  1. Quest
  2. Search
  3. Exploration
  4. Pursuit
  5. Discovery
  6. Inquiry
  7. Aspiration
  8. Investigation
  9. Hunt
  10. Mission

Etymology: History and Origins of "Seek"

The word "seek" originates from the Old English term sēcan, meaning "to go in search of" or "to inquire." It is related to Old High German suohhen and Gothic sōkjan, which also mean "to seek" or "to investigate." Over centuries, "seek" maintained its fundamental meaning of searching for something, whether tangible or abstract. It remains a core verb in modern English with widespread applications in literature, philosophy, and everyday language.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Seek"

"Seek" appears in many compound terms and phrases that extend its meaning.

  1. Seeker: A person who actively searches for something, such as a "truth-seeker."
  2. Job-seeking: The act of searching for employment.
  3. Attention-seeking: Describes behavior aimed at gaining notice from others.
  4. Thrill-seeker: A person who actively pursues excitement and adventure.

Common Misspellings of "Seek"

Although "seek" is a simple word, it is sometimes misspelled. Here are some common mistakes:

  1. Seak
  2. Seeke
  3. Seke
  4. Sieek
  5. Seick

10 Idioms Similar to "Seek"

Here are ten idioms that convey similar ideas to "seek":

  1. Go after
  2. Leave no stone unturned
  3. On a mission
  4. Follow one’s dreams
  5. Dig deep
  6. Scour the earth
  7. Hunt high and low
  8. Look far and wide
  9. Search high and low
  10. In pursuit of

10 Common Questions About "Seek"

The word "seek" is widely used in various contexts, leading to several common questions about its meanings and usage. Below are ten frequently asked questions along with their answers.

1. What is the difference between "seek" and "search"?

"Seek" refers to the act of looking for something in a broad sense, while "search" often involves a more detailed or systematic process of finding something.

2. Is "seek" a formal word?

Yes, "seek" is commonly used in formal writing and professional settings, whereas "look for" is more casual.

3. What is the past tense of "seek"?

The past tense of "seek" is "sought."

4. Can "seek" be used in legal contexts?

Yes, "seek" is often used in legal documents, such as "seeking damages" or "seeking legal counsel."

5. What does "seek guidance" mean?

"Seek guidance" means to look for advice, direction, or mentorship from someone knowledgeable.

6. Can "seek" be used in a spiritual sense?

Yes, "seek" is often used in religious and spiritual contexts, such as "seek enlightenment" or "seek the truth."

7. What is an example of "seek" in a sentence?

"She decided to seek a new career opportunity in a different industry."

8. What does "seek approval" mean?

"Seek approval" means to look for validation or permission from another person or authority.

9. How is "seek" used in business?

In business, "seek" is used in contexts such as "seeking investment," "seeking a partnership," or "seeking new markets."

10. What are some common phrases with "seek"?

Common phrases include "seek advice," "seek employment," "seek justice," and "seek refuge."

Conclusion

"Seek" is a versatile verb used to describe searching, pursuing, or requesting something actively. It is widely used in personal, professional, legal, and philosophical contexts. Understanding its different meanings and applications enhances communication and expression in formal and informal settings.

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