Handbag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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handbag

[ˈhændˌbæɡ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

fashion accessory

A handbag is a small bag with a handle, used by women to carry personal items such as money, keys, makeup, etc. Handbags come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and are often considered a fashion statement.

Synonyms

bag, clutch, purse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
handbag	A medium-sized bag, often used by women, designed to be carried in the hand or over the shoulder. It is typically used for personal items like a wallet, phone, and cosmetics. She bought a new designer handbag for the upcoming party. Her handbag matched her shoes perfectly.
purse	Can refer to a small bag used by women to carry money, cards, and other small personal items. In British English, it often means a wallet. She took out her wallet from her purse to pay for the meal. He mistakenly left his wife's purse in the cab.
bag	A general term that can refer to any type of container used for carrying items. This can range from shopping bags to sports bags. He packed his gym clothes in his sports bag. She carries her lunch in a small bag every day.
clutch	A small, often elegant, handbag without handles, typically used for evening occasions or formal events. It's designed to be held in hand. She chose a sparkling clutch to go with her evening gown. The clutch was just big enough to hold her phone and lipstick.

Examples of usage

I bought a new handbag to match my outfit.
She always carries her handbag everywhere she goes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

In the 20th century, handbags became a fashion statement, evolving from mere utility items to symbols of style and luxury.
Designer brands like Chanel and Gucci transformed handbags into high-status fashion accessories.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, handbags can reflect social status, personal style, and identity, often seen as extensions of one's personality.
The design and style of a handbag can indicate cultural trends and shifts in gender roles.

Psychology

Research suggests that the items people carry in their handbags can indicate their personality traits and priorities, such as organization or creativity.
Carrying a handbag can also serve as a confidence booster for some individuals, providing a sense of preparedness.

History

Before modern handbags, women often used sewing bags or reticules to carry personal items.
In the 19th century, handbags began to take on their contemporary shape and style, often made from luxurious materials.

Origin of 'handbag'

Main points about word origin

The word 'handbag' comes from the combination of 'hand', meaning something you carry, and 'bag', meaning a container.
Originally, the term was used in the 14th century to describe a bag that was carried in hand.

The term 'handbag' originated in the early 1900s and was initially used to describe small bags carried by men for travel purposes. Over time, it evolved to refer to women's accessories for carrying personal items. Handbags have become an essential part of fashion and style, with various designers creating unique and trendy designs.