The word "clutter" refers to a state of disorder or mess that is created when things are scattered or haphazardly placed around a space. It often implies that there are too many items present, making it difficult to find what you need or to navigate through the area. Clutter can be physical, such as clutter in a room filled with papers, clothes, or objects, or it can also refer to mental clutter, which relates to having too many thoughts or distractions.
The word "clutter" comes from the Middle English word "clotter," meaning to bring together in a disorganized manner. It is thought to be derived from the Old Norse word "kluta," which means to collide or to make a mess. Over time, the meaning evolved to describe the state of being messy or disorganized.