1
a(1)
: a small bag for money
(2)
: a receptacle (such as a pocketbook) for carrying money and often other small objects
b
: a receptacle (such as a pouch) shaped like a purse
pursed; pursing
Examples of purse in a Sentence
Noun
a golf tournament with a million dollar purse
I left my purse at home, so I can't buy anything after all.
Verb
She pursed her lips in concentration.
His lips were tightly pursed.
Recent Examples on the Web
Peter Van Sant, CBS News, 12 Apr. 2026
The prize purse for the race was significantly increased this year.
—Brom Hoban, Austin American Statesman, 12 Apr. 2026
This $19 Amazon purse is similar to my go-to Stoney Clover bag for a fraction of the price.
—Rebecca Shinners, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2026
Elegant folding design for easy storage in bags, backpacks or purses with a lightweight yet durable frame for everyday use.
—ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for purse
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Noun
Yeah, no, the purse was not in there.
—Peter Van Sant, CBS News, 12 Apr. 2026
The prize purse for the race was significantly increased this year.
—Brom Hoban, Austin American Statesman, 12 Apr. 2026
This $19 Amazon purse is similar to my go-to Stoney Clover bag for a fraction of the price.
—Rebecca Shinners, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2026
Elegant folding design for easy storage in bags, backpacks or purses with a lightweight yet durable frame for everyday use.
—ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for purse
Cite this Entry
“Purse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purse. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
purse
1 of 2 noun1
: a small container (as a wallet) for money
especially
: a woman's pocketbook
2
: a source of supply or support
3
: a sum of money offered as a prize or present
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