grubbing (dictionary definition)

1. to search for and pull up (roots, stumps, etc) by digging in the ground
2. to dig up the surface of (ground, soil, etc), to clear away roots, stumps, etc
3. to search carefully
4. to work unceasingly (at a dull task or research)
5. slang to provide (a person) with food or (of a person) to take food
7. (zoology) the short legless larva of certain insects, e.g. beetles
8. eating heavily like you've never seen food before.