handbag

noun

hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag 

1

: suitcase

2

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

Synonyms of handbag

• suitcase
• wallet

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

With viral moneymakers like handbags and bucket hats, the eco collection contributed to 14 percent year-over-year sales growth for the fashion house. — Danielle Directo-Meston, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2026

In May, two of Lan’s Hermes handbags were sold via online auction, fetching about $539,000. — Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 18 June 2026

Unlike heavier leather handbags, basketwoven styles feel lighter to carry and pair naturally with warm-weather outfits. — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026

And keep scrolling below for more travel-ready handbags from Quince. — Paris Wilson, Travel + Leisure, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for handbag

• airbag
• ragtag
• sandbag
• ag
• bag
• brag
• dag
• drag
• flag
• gag
• hag
• hagg

Kids Definition

handbag

noun

hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag 

1

: suitcase

2

: a woman's bag for carrying small personal articles and money