Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed By Major Class [Line Items]
Accounts receivable, net	$ 8,879
Inventories	10,155
Other current assets	2,593
Property, plant & equipment	2,087
Goodwill	40,289	152,400	37,100
Other intangible assets	32,869	157,500	18,200
Trade accounts payable	(4,270)
Other current liabilities	(8,097)
Deferred/contingent purchase price payable	(6,336)
Deferred income taxes	(8,823)
Other non-current liabilities	(126)
Cash paid, net of cash acquired	$ 69,220