Past tense of scout; explored or searched an area to gather information, or evaluated someone's abilities or potential.
From Old French 'escouter' meaning 'to listen', which became 'scout' meaning 'to spy or reconnoiter'. The word evolved from listening secretly to observing and gathering intelligence, entering English in the 14th century.
Sports scouting has become incredibly sophisticated, with scouts using advanced analytics alongside traditional observation. The same word describes both military reconnaissance and talent hunting, reflecting how both require the same skills: keen observation, good judgment, and strategic thinking.
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