wallet

noun

wal·​let ˈwä-lət 

plural wallets

1

: a bag for carrying miscellaneous articles while traveling

2

a

: a folding pocketbook with compartments for personal papers and usually unfolded paper money

also : billfold

b

: a container that resembles a money wallet: such as

(1)

: a usually flexible folding case fitted for carrying specific items (such as tools or fishing flies)

(2)

: folder sense 3a

3

: resources, funds

… a shopping mall that seems to swallow your wallet.

—Karen Wright

4

a

: an app or app feature for a mobile device or web browser that digitally stores a user's important information (such as credit cards, driver's license, or event tickets) : digital wallet

b

: an application or device used to store and manage cryptocurrency

… hardware wallets and software wallets, that help to restrict access to your cryptocurrency and can be accessed using a password …

—USA Today

Synonyms of wallet

• handbag
• briefcase

Examples of wallet in a Sentence

She paid the bill and tucked her wallet back into her pocket.

He pulled a few bills out of his wallet.

Recent Examples on the Web

The price hike for any individual item would likely be modest, but the pileup of extra costs across an array of goods could weigh on wallets, analysts previously told ABC News. — Max Zahn, ABC News, 4 Sep. 2026

In July 2026, for example, average airfares were nearly 26% more expensive than in July 2025, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics—a significant hit to travelers’ wallets. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Sep. 2026

The vibrant floral motifs and creamy white hue ooze sophistication, while the dainty size is perfect for carrying your phone, keys, lipstick, and wallet. — Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 Sep. 2026

Users' portions of the settlement will be delivered to their PlayStation Network account wallets, according to the lawsuit's website. — Julia Gomez, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English walet

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing wallet

• digital wallet
• vote with your wallet

Rhymes for wallet

• collet
• gallate
• hippolyte

Kids Definition

wallet

noun

wal·​let ˈwäl-ət 

1

: a bag or sack for carrying things on a journey

2

: a small flat folding pocketbook with compartments (as for coins, paper money, and cards)

also : billfold