I. ˈməkˌrāk verb
Etymology: from obsolete English muckrake, n., rake for gathering dung into a heap, from muck (I) + rake
intransitive verb
: to search out and charge with and seek to expose publicly real or apparent misconduct or vice or corruption on the part of prominent individuals (as public officials)
a politician that muckrakes at every opportunity
: dig up scandal
would enjoy himself if he could muckrake in his own backyard — Reginald Reynolds
transitive verb
1. : to subject to muckraking
muckraked his rivals with great relish
2. : to investigate or go over assiduously with the purpose of digging up scandal or of incriminating
muckrakes his subject with pious zeal — Time
II. noun
Etymology: from obsolete English muckrake, n.
1.
a. : muckraking — used with the
jeered at me and my colleagues of the muckrake — Lincoln Steffens
such a bold defender of the people, if it be necessary, will use the much dreaded muckrake — A.M.Grussi
b. : a book, article, speech, or other medium used as a vehicle for a muckraking disclosure
will publish his newest muckrake later this year
2. : muckraker
a confirmed holier-than-thou muckrake