Phrase guide

dig up dirt

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To examine in order to find negative information for public opinion, usually with the purpose of embarrassing or discrediting a person.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, usually, with-on

Examples

  • The freelance investigative reporter made a career of digging up dirt on celebrities for tabloids.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.