wallet

noun

wal·​let ˈwä-lət 

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

Synonyms

• suitcase

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

For an option that’s a little friendlier on the wallet, semi-custom cabinetry allows customers to have catalog pieces modified to their specifications. —Liz Ohanesian, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025

The best part is that the wallet zips up entirely, which means nothing can fall out accidentally. —Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 19 Sep. 2025

Bellroy’s wallets with magnetic closures is a unique product. —Omaid Homayun, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025

Beautiful tote bags, compact wallets, and hands-free purses are up to 70 percent off, while select styles are an extra 25 percent off through Monday, September 22. —Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English walet

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing 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