'rummage' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'arrumer,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'rumer' meant 'to stow cargo.'

'arrumer' transformed into the English word 'rummage' through Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'rummage.'

Initially, it meant 'to stow cargo,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to search through something.'