handbag

noun

hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
Synonyms of handbagnext
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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Saks also has quite a few coveted handbags on the roster too—like Liffner’s Petite Penne in textured, croc finish, plus beautiful woven shapes from Dragon Diffusion, and plenty of Mansur Gavriel minimalist leather goodies—such as a roomy, hobo shape in sumptuous suede. — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 21 Mar. 2025 Crafted from silver vegan leather with engraved paisley detailing and featuring its signature hardware, the handbag is undeniably a standout accessory. — Mecca Pryor, Essence, 21 Mar. 2025 In court documents obtained by In Touch, a judge ruled Jeannie could pick up her belongings — her Emmy and other trophies, photos, handbags, and shoes placed in boxes — within 21 days from Jeezy’s home. — Regina Cho, VIBE.com, 20 Mar. 2025 Roomy and sometimes slouchy handbags in soft suede are the undisputed style essentials of the season–at least as far as the consummate bag lover is concerned. — Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handbag

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handbag was in 1859

Rhymes for handbag

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Browse Nearby Words

hand back
handbag
hand baggage
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Cite this Entry

“Handbag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handbag. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

handbag

noun
hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
1
: suitcase
2
: a woman's bag for carrying small personal articles and money

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