1
as in suitcase
a bag carried by hand and designed to hold a traveler's clothing and personal articles
flies only with a handbag so he doesn't have to check his luggage
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in purse
a container for carrying money and small personal items
her handbag is just big enough to hold her favorite photos and wallet
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of handbag
As George Nelson reported for ARTnews in February, 38 percent of new buyers at Christie’s last year came through its luxury categories, which include handbags, jewelry, fine wine and spirits, classic cars, and memorabilia.
—
Harrison Jacobs,
ARTnews.com,
22 June 2026
The pink tones of Witherspoon’s look continued with the actress’ Manolo Blahnik strappy heels, and a coordinated Vestirsi handbag in a similar muted pink tone.
—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
22 June 2026
Add a rattan handbag and wear it to a pool party or beachside.
—
Brandi Fuller,
Better Homes & Gardens,
22 June 2026
The lightweight layer keeps the outfit seasonally appropriate, while a simple tank, leather boots, and a structured leather handbag add just the right amount of edge to an otherwise girly look.
—
Amanda Le,
InStyle,
20 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for handbag
Harrison Jacobs,
ARTnews.com,
22 June 2026
The pink tones of Witherspoon’s look continued with the actress’ Manolo Blahnik strappy heels, and a coordinated Vestirsi handbag in a similar muted pink tone.
—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
22 June 2026
Add a rattan handbag and wear it to a pool party or beachside.
—
Brandi Fuller,
Better Homes & Gardens,
22 June 2026
The lightweight layer keeps the outfit seasonally appropriate, while a simple tank, leather boots, and a structured leather handbag add just the right amount of edge to an otherwise girly look.
—
Amanda Le,
InStyle,
20 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for handbag
Recent Examples of Synonyms for handbag
Noun
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Made from a breathable cotton blend, it’s designed to look good straight out of your suitcase.
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As the accounts amassed half a million followers, Earle seeded influencer friends Away suitcases (locked with her new products inside) and puzzle pieces that were added to an NYC digital billboard that incrementally revealed the launch.
Noun
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Congress holds power of the purse The shifting funds are certain to ignite growing concerns in Congress over the separation of powers, and the president’s use of federal funds allocated by lawmakers.
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Of course this is professional golf, so there is a substantial prize purse that goes along with one of golf’s largest and most historic tournaments.
Noun
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The monumental matchup will be televised on ESPN and for those without traditional cable, Sling TV offers one of the most wallet-friendly ways to watch live online.
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Plus, the minimalist design is easy to wear day or night, and can fit your phone, passport, wallet, and other essentials.
Noun
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Airlines will sometimes even measure your bag to enforce the size restrictions.
-
Transfer to a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag.
Cite this Entry
“Handbag.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/handbag. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.
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