Definition of ransacks:
(v) :
(transitive) To search (a place, through things, etc.) thoroughly, especially when vigorous and leaving behind a state of disarray.
(v) :
(transitive) To search (someone or a place) thoroughly in order to steal something, especially when vigorous and leaving behind a state of disarray; hence, to rob (someone or a place); to plunder.
(v) :
(intransitive) To search thoroughly, especially when leaving behind a state of disarray.
(v) :
(transitive) (chiefly passive voice) To search for and steal (something) as plunder.
(n) :
Synonym of ransacking (“an act of ransacking (“searching thoroughly (in order to steal); etc.”) someone or something; an eager search”).
(v) :
(transitive) (figurative, archaic) To examine (someone or something) carefully; to investigate; also, to question (someone) thoroughly; to interrogate.