DictionaryperuseCasual browsing
verb

peruse

Look through something casually.

We perused the gift-shop shelves while waiting for the rain to stop.

Etymology

Peruse historically concerns going through or examining something. The casual-reading use weakens the intensity of that examination, describing a less thorough look through the material.

More examples

  • She casually perused a magazine in the waiting room.
  • He perused the menu without deciding what to order.
  • They perused the display before continuing their walk.

Forms

peruse · peruses · perused · perusing

Similar words

browse
Browse looks casually through a selection; peruse can have this sense despite also meaning careful reading.
skim
Skim moves quickly over text; casual perusal can also include looking over objects or displays.