rummage
UK: ˈrʌmɪdʒ | US: ˈrʌmɪdʒ
v. to search untidily or hurriedly through something
n. an act of searching in a disorderly manner
n. miscellaneous items, especially in a jumble
The word "rummage" likely originated from the Old French arrumer (to arrange cargo in a ship’s hold), influenced by the Dutch rommelen (to make a mess). Over time, it evolved to describe the chaotic search through disorganized items, reflecting its nautical roots in rearranging cargo. The suffix -age nominalizes the action, giving us both the verb and noun forms.
She rummaged through her bag to find her keys.
The detective rummaged in the drawer for clues.
A rummage sale was held to raise funds for the school.
His room was a rummage of clothes and books.
The sailors rummaged the ship’s hold before departure.