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handbag

noun hand·bag \ ˈhan(d)-ˌbag \
|Updated on: 22 Jun 2018

Definition of handbag

1 : suitcase
2 : a bag held in the hand or hung from a shoulder strap and used for carrying small personal articles and money

See handbag defined for English-language learners

See handbag defined for kids

Examples of handbag in a Sentence

  1. flies only with a handbag so he doesn't have to check his luggage

  2. her handbag is just big enough to hold her favorite photos and wallet

Recent Examples of handbag from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'handbag.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of handbag

1859

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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handbag Synonyms

Synonyms

carry-on, carryall, grip, portmanteau, suitcase, traveling bag, wallet;

Related Words

overnight bag (also overnight case);

carpetbag, duffel bag, kit;

backpack, haversack, knapsack, packsack, rucksack;

attaché, attaché case, briefcase, valise;

baggage, bags, luggage;

HANDBAG Defined for English Language Learners

handbag

noun

Definition of handbag for English Language Learners

  • : a woman's small bag or purse used for carrying personal things and money

HANDBAG Defined for Kids

handbag

noun hand·bag \ ˈhand-ˌbag \

Definition of handbag for Students

: a bag used for carrying money and small personal articles

Learn More about handbag

  1. See words that rhyme with handbag Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for handbag Spanish Central: Translation of handbag Nglish: Translation of handbag for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of handbag for Arabic speakers

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