What is the meaning of ransacking?

noun

• A thorough search for something (often causing disorder or confusion. )
  • usage: "he gave the attic a good rummage but couldn't find his skis"
  • synonyms: rummage

verb

• Steal goods; take as spoils.
  • usage: "During the earthquake people looted the stores that were deserted by their owners"
  • synonyms: plunder, despoil, loot, reave, strip, rifle, ransack, pillage, foray
• Search thoroughly.
  • usage: "They combed the area for the missing child"
  • synonyms: comb, ransack