Portable: meaning, definitions and examples

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portable

 

[ ˈpɔːrtəbl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

technology

Capable of being easily carried or moved, especially because of being of a lighter and smaller version than usual.

Synonyms

compact, handy, mobile.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
portable

Used to describe something that can be easily carried or moved, usually implying lightweight and convenience for transportation.

  • She bought a portable charger for her phone.
  • The portable speaker is great for outdoor events.
mobile

Describes something that is moveable or able to be moved freely and easily. Often used in the context of technology or services that can operate while on the move.

  • She enjoys reading on her mobile device.
  • The mobile clinic visits remote villages.
compact

Describes something that is small, efficiently designed, or taking up minimal space. Often used for devices or items where space efficiency is important.

  • He prefers a compact car for city driving.
  • This compact camera fits easily in a pocket.
handy

Refers to something that is useful, convenient, or easily accessible. Often used to describe tools or items that are frequently needed and easy to use.

  • This toolkit is very handy for quick repairs.
  • Keep this map handy for your trip.

Examples of usage

  • This portable speaker is perfect for outdoor activities.
  • She always carries a portable charger with her.
  • The laptop is lightweight and very portable.
  • The portable air conditioner can easily be moved from room to room.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A small transportable computer.

Examples of usage

  • I use a portable for work while traveling.
  • He prefers a portable over a desktop computer.

Translations

Translations of the word "portable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 portátil

🇮🇳 पोर्टेबल

🇩🇪 tragbar

🇮🇩 portabel

🇺🇦 портативний

🇵🇱 przenośny

🇯🇵 ポータブル

🇫🇷 portable

🇪🇸 portátil

🇹🇷 taşınabilir

🇰🇷 휴대용

🇸🇦 محمول

🇨🇿 přenosný

🇸🇰 prenosný

🇨🇳 便携的

🇸🇮 prenosni

🇮🇸 færanlegur

🇰🇿 тасымалданатын

🇬🇪 პორტატული

🇦🇿 daşınan

🇲🇽 portátil

Etymology

The word 'portable' originated from the Latin word 'portabilis', which means 'that can be carried'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe something that can be easily carried or moved. The concept of portability has become increasingly important in technology and design, leading to the development of various portable devices and gadgets.

See also: airport, comport, deport, export, passport, port, portability, portal, portend, portent, porter, porters, portion, portly, portrait, viewport.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,713 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.