handbag

noun

hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
Synonyms of handbagnext
1
2
: a bag held in the hand or hung from a shoulder strap and used for carrying small personal articles and money

Examples of handbag in a Sentence

flies only with a handbag so he doesn't have to check his luggage her handbag is just big enough to hold her favorite photos and wallet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Instead, go for visual contrasts like airy blouses, minimalist sandals, or chic leather handbags that offer a sophisticated air. Alex Sales, Glamour, 22 Feb. 2026 There was also a selection of Première Mini watches, Ultra rings, handbags, ballet flats and sandals. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 22 Feb. 2026 The Hermés Kelly set the stage for future iconic luxury handbags. Ariel Bielsky, InStyle, 22 Feb. 2026 One of the 10 participating businesses is Cristallo, owned by Crystal Mitchell-Ward, which sells vegan leather handbags and accessories. Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handbag

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handbag was in 1859

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handbag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handbag. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

handbag

noun
hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
1
2
: a woman's bag for carrying small personal articles and money

More from Merriam-Webster on handbag

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