frisk
word
Definition
To quickly search someone’s body and clothing to check for weapons, illegal items, or stolen property, often done by police. Can also mean to skip or leap playfully, but this use is rare.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in legal, police, or security contexts for physical searches. Less often, 'frisk' appears as a playful verb meaning 'to skip' or 'frolic', but this usage is rare and old-fashioned. Typical phrases include 'to frisk someone' or 'give a frisk' (noun). Do not confuse with 'risk'.
Example Sentences
The police officer frisked the suspect for weapons.
basic
Security guards sometimes frisk people at the entrance.
basic
May I frisk your bag before you enter?
basic
They pulled him aside and gave him a quick frisk.
natural
If you act nervous, security might decide to frisk you.
natural
The children laughed as the puppy frisked around the garden.
natural