The phrase "rake through" refers to the act of meticulously combing through something, usually a pile or collection of items, in order to find an item of interest. Synonyms for "rake through" might include phrases like "sort through," "sift through," "scour through," or "peruse." Each of these terms conveys the idea of carefully searching through a collection of things with the intent of finding something specific. Other possible synonyms might include "search through," "comb over," "examine closely," or "delve into." Whatever phrase is used, the goal is to convey the idea of a thorough, methodical search for something specific.