Rummaging: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'rummaging' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the verb 'to rummage,' which itself emerged from the word 'room.' The term was initially connected to the act of making a place tidy, but it evolved to imply a scrappy or haphazard search through items. It is believed to be influenced by the old French word 'romage,' meaning 'to clear out.' Over time, 'rummaging' has taken on a more casual connotation, often used when describing unauthorized searching, digging through possessions, or looking for something misplaced. This reflects a broader human behavior of exploration and discovery, whether it be in a physical space like a closet or metaphorically, as in exploring one's thoughts.

At rank #27,230, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 27227 blissfully
• 27228 scarcer
• 27229 messiah
• 27230 rummaging
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• 27232 silting
• 27233 incognito
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