scouting
/ˈskaʊtɪŋ
/noun [mass noun]
1The action of gathering information about enemy forces or an area: he learned the elements of scouting and intelligence gathering [as modifier]: he ventured forth in a scouting party with two of his troopers...
- For the most part it was considered that air forces would be used primarily for scouting and reconnaissance missions, both overland and at sea.
- They maintain that commandos are carrying our scouting and reconnaissance missions inside enemy-held areas.
- Roger's Rangers were involved in many scouting and reconnaissance mission, acting as the eyes and ears for the English troops.
1.1The activity of a talent scout: rugby union should build a system of scouting such as rugby league has had for 100 years...
- It's obvious when you talk about prospects how much you value your first-hand account, or the scouting reports you hear of a player.
- Some will complain it puts their scouting of college talent and preparation for free agency at a disadvantage against teams with coaches in place, but I don't buy that.
- Last season he still kept involved in the game, compiling scouting reports for clubs and also going to watch games just to keep his ‘finger-in’, so to speak.
2 (also Scouting) The characteristic activity and occupation of a Scout; the Scout movement: we need active participation from every facet of Scouting [as modifier]: a veteran of the Scouting Movement...
- A Bowness woman has been recognised for her outstanding work within the scouting movement over many years.
- It would appear that the scouting movement held little to no appeal to the PM and many members of the government.
- Moves within the scouting movement mean that future scouts and guides are more likely to stay in hotel style billets than traditional tents.