To explore an area to obtain information, especially for military purposes. The soldiers were sent to scout the area for enemy activity.
To search or look for something, often in a preliminary or exploratory manner. We need to scout for a good location to set up our picnic.
To assess or evaluate a person or thing, often for potential recruitment or acquisition. The talent agent was scouting for new actors at the local theater.
(archaic) To reject or dismiss with scorn or disdain. Several scientists initially scouted the theory as implausible.