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Carpetbag: meaning, definitions and examples

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carpetbag

 

[ˈkɑːrpɪtbæɡ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical term

A carpetbag is a travel bag made of carpet fabric, originally used in the 19th century by travelers. The term became associated with certain political figures, particularly those who moved to the Southern United States after the Civil War. These individuals, often referred to as 'carpetbaggers', were perceived as opportunists looking to exploit the South's unstable post-war economy. The bags were typically large and were used to carry a variety of personal belongings. Today, the term is often used in a derogatory sense to describe someone who is viewed as an outsider opportunistically taking advantage of a situation.

Synonyms

luggage, travel bag, valise.

Examples of usage

  • The carpetbaggers came with their carpetbags in search of fortune.
  • He carried a worn-out carpetbag full of old clothes.
  • The term 'carpetbagger' is often used to describe a politician who moves into a district to win an election.
  • In the 1860s, many carpetbags were commonly seen in Southern towns.
  • She found an antique carpetbag at the flea market.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • This term became popular during the Reconstruction era in the United States when people moved south after the Civil War, often carrying these bags.
  • The bags were cheap and practical, made from leftover carpet fabric, which is how they got their name.

Cultural Significance

  • In American history, 'carpetbaggers' were seen as outsiders aiming to exploit new opportunities in the South, which led to a negative connotation.
  • The presence of these bags and their users became symbols of the tumultuous political and social changes occurring in the post-war South.

Literature

  • The term 'carpetbagger' has appeared in various works, illustrating social commentary on opportunistic behavior and the challenges of integration during Reconstruction.
  • Carpetbags often symbolize transience and change in literature, reflecting themes of movement and the unpredictability of life.

Modern Usage

  • Today, the word can refer to someone perceived as an opportunist, especially in politics, maintaining its historical stigma.
  • With the rise of global travel, the retro aesthetic of carpetbags has led to a resurgence in popularity among vintage fashion enthusiasts.

Fashion

  • Carpetbags have evolved into a stylish accessory, inspiring contemporary designs that pay homage to their original look.
  • Today, designers incorporate various textiles and patterns, transforming the traditional carpetbag into a fashionable item.

Translations

Translations of the word "carpetbag" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mala de viagem

🇮🇳 गाड़ी का सामान

🇩🇪 Reisegepäck

🇮🇩 tas perjalanan

🇺🇦 чемодан

🇵🇱 torba podróżna

🇯🇵 旅行用バッグ

🇫🇷 sac de voyage

🇪🇸 bolso de viaje

🇹🇷 seyahat çantası

🇰🇷 여행 가방

🇸🇦 حقيبة سفر

🇨🇿 cestovní taška

🇸🇰 cestovná taška

🇨🇳 旅行包

🇸🇮 potovalna torba

🇮🇸 ferða poka

🇰🇿 сапар сөмкесі

🇬🇪 მგზავრობის ჩანთა

🇦🇿 səyahət çantası

🇲🇽 bolsa de viaje

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,286, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.