Rummage

/ˈrʌmɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a thorough search or a collection of items found in such a search

The rummage in the storage room turned up several old toys.

a disordered collection of items, often found after searching

After the rummage, the garage was filled with boxes and old furniture.

verb

to search through something in a messy or hurried way

She decided to rummage through the attic to find her old photographs.

to search for and collect items from a place that is disorganized

He rummaged through his backpack to find his lost keys.

to move things around in an untidy manner while searching

The dog began to rummage in the trash can looking for food.

Middle English 'rumagien', from Old French 'rummager'.

rummage sale

A sale of miscellaneous articles, typically held to raise funds.

rummage around

To search for something in a haphazard manner.

rummage through

To look through items systematically but often in a disorganized way.

To look for something.

scavenge

To search for and gather items discarded by others.

explore

To search through an area to discover more about it.

To look through someone's belongings, often without permission.

He was caught rummaging through his roommate's drawers.

To search frantically for something.

I was rummaging for my keys right before I left.