First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1grub
verb \ˈgrəb\
: to dig in the ground for something that is difficult to find or remove
: to search for something : to try hard to get or find something
grubbedgrub·bing
Full Definition of GRUB
transitive verb
1
: to clear by digging up roots and stumps
2
: to dig up by or as if by the roots
intransitive verb
1
a : to dig in the ground especially for something that is difficult to find or extract b : to search about <grubbed in the countryside for food — Lamp>
See grub defined for English-language learners
See grub defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of GRUB
Middle English grubben; akin to Old English grafan to dig — more at grave
Related to GRUB
2grub
noun
: the young form of an insect in which it looks like a small worm
Full Definition of GRUB
1
: a soft thick wormlike larva of an insect (as a beetle)
2
a : one who does menial work : drudge b : a slovenly person
3
: food
See grub defined for English-language learners
Origin of GRUB
Middle English grubbe, from grubben
First Known Use: 15th century
Related to GRUB
GRUB Defined for Kids
1grub
verb \ˈgrəb\
grubbedgrub·bing
Definition of GRUB for Kids
1
: to find by digging <grub for roots>
2
: to work hard
2grub
noun
Medical Dictionary
grub
noun \ˈgrəb\
Medical Definition of GRUB
: a soft thick wormlike larva of an insect
Learn More About GRUB
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up grub? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).