FYI:
"
Recent announcements
Message Date Windows Search shows blank box <br><br><br>We are aware of a temporary server-side issue causing Windows search to show a blank box. This issue has been resolved for most users and in some cases, you might need to restart your device. We are working diligently to fully<br> resolve the issue and will provide an update once resolved. February 05, 2020 <br><br>09:32 AM PT "
Source:https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/release-information/windows-message-center#387
Thanks for the info Smeed. In the meantime I'm using "Everything" (www.voidtools.com), and will continue to do so even if this ever gets fixed (no comparison). In a way this bug was a blessing in disguise because Everything is SO MUCH BETTER than Windows search EVER WAS, regardless - and I would never have thought to seek it out had this not occurred :))).
Windows search ...who?
LOL hope this helps someone.
(nothin' personal, MS)