rummelig

Rummelig is an adjective used in Danish and Norwegian to describe something that has or allows for a lot of space, i.e., spacious or roomy. In addition to describing physical space, it can refer to attitudes, policies, or approaches that are open, generous, or tolerant. In architectural or interior contexts, it is commonly applied to rooms, layouts, or buildings that feel expansive, such as a rummeligt værelse or et rummeligt hus. In a figurative sense, it can describe people or organizations that are inclusive or accommodating, for example a rummelig tilgang to clients.

Etymology and meaning: The word derives from rum, meaning space or room, combined with the suffix -lig, producing a meaning close to “spacey” or “having room.” The core sense emphasizes capacity, whether physical or social.

Forms and usage: Rummelig is used attributively and predicatively and follows standard Scandinavian adjective inflection patterns. The noun form rummelighed exists and denotes the quality of being spacious or tolerant. In context, it can describe both tangible space and abstract openness, such as a company with rummelighed toward diverse applicants or a home with a rummelig indretning.

Notes: The term conveys a neutral to positive nuance and is common in both everyday language and descriptive writing. It is often used in design, architecture, and discussions of inclusivity or budgeting where ample space or openness is a key attribute. Example: “Huset har en rummelig stue.” “Organisationen viser rummelighed over for nye ansøgere.”