Purse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👛

Add to dictionary

purse

[pɜːrs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

fashion accessory

A purse is a small bag used by women to carry personal items such as money, keys, and cosmetics. Purses come in various styles, materials, and sizes, and are often used as a fashion statement.

Synonyms

clutch, handbag, wallet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
purse	Commonly used in British English to refer to a small bag, often used by women to carry money and personal items. In American English, it more generally refers to a larger bag used by women. She reached into her purse to find her keys
handbag	Frequently used in both British and American English to describe a medium to large-sized bag carried by women, typically with handles. It's used for daily activities and can hold various personal items. She always has a snack and a book in her handbag
clutch	Refers to a small, usually stylish handbag without a handle, often used for formal occasions or evening events. She carried a silver clutch to match her evening gown
wallet	A small, flat case used to carry personal items such as cash, credit cards, and identification. Suitable for both men and women. He checked his wallet to make sure he had enough money

Examples of usage

She always carries her purse with her wherever she goes.
I need to buy a new purse to match my outfit.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

money holder

In British English, a purse can also refer to a small bag used to hold coins and banknotes. It is often carried in a pocket or handbag for easy access to money.

Synonyms

coin purse, money pouch, wallet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
purse	A small bag used by women to carry money and personal items such as makeup. It is typically used in more formal or semi-formal settings. She pulled out a compact from her purse to check her makeup. Don't forget to take your purse with you when you leave.
wallet	A flat, folding case used by both men and women to carry money, credit cards, and identification. It is generally used in everyday scenarios. He pulled out his wallet to pay for the meal. Her wallet was full of various credit cards and receipts.
coin purse	A small pouch or wallet specially designed to carry coins. It is used when you need to organize or carry loose change. He kept a few dollars in his coin purse for the vending machine. She rummaged through her coin purse to find the exact change.
money pouch	A pouch used to carry money, usually for travel or when carrying larger sums of cash. It often has a more utilitarian design and may be worn on a belt or under clothing for security. During the trip, he kept his money pouch hidden under his shirt for safety. She used a money pouch to keep all her cash organized while traveling.

Examples of usage

He reached into his purse to pay for the coffee.
She keeps her spare change in her purse.

Translations

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

Origin of 'purse'

The word 'purse' originated from the Old English word 'purs', which in turn came from the Medieval Latin word 'bursa', meaning 'bag' or 'pouch'. The concept of carrying personal items in a small bag dates back centuries, with purses evolving in style and function over time to become the fashion accessories we know today.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,316 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7313 tenderness
7314 endowed
7315 thine
7316 purse
7317 collectively
7318 periodically
7319 connexion
...