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Sack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sack

[sæk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in football

A tackle in which the quarterback is brought down behind the line of scrimmage before he is able to throw a pass.

Examples of usage

  • The defense got a sack on the quarterback.
  • After the sack, it was fourth down and long.
Context #2 | Noun

bag

A large bag made of a strong material such as burlap, used for storing and carrying goods.

Examples of usage

  • He filled the sack with potatoes.
  • She carried the sack of flour on her back.
Context #3 | Verb

dismiss

To dismiss someone from their job or position.

Examples of usage

  • They decided to sack the manager after the poor performance.
  • The company sacked half of its employees due to financial difficulties.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, sacks are symbols of storage and economy, often used in trade and agriculture.
  • The phrase 'hitting the sack' colloquially means going to sleep, emphasizing the comfort associated with a sleeping bag.
  • During festivals, decorative sacks are often used to hold gifts, highlighting their role in celebrations.

Practical Uses

  • Sacks made of burlap are commonly used for transporting agricultural products like potatoes and coffee.
  • In sports, a 'sack' refers to a tackle made against a quarterback, showing the term's versatility beyond just bags.
  • In the kitchen, many people use small sacks to hold ingredients, like flour or sugar, making it easier to store and pour.

History

  • Throughout history, sacks have been essential for trade, with early civilizations using them to move goods and materials.
  • In ancient Egypt, sacks were used to store grains and were crucial for the economy, shaping agricultural practices.
  • During wartime, soldiers often carried sacks as their primary means of transporting personal belongings and supplies.

Science and Technology

  • Innovations in materials have led to the creation of strong, lightweight sacks perfect for carrying heavy loads efficiently.
  • Biodegradable sacks are being developed to reduce plastic waste, highlighting the connection of science with everyday items.
  • In physics, the concept of 'sack' can relate to mass and volume, useful in discussions about weight distribution.

Origin of 'sack'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'saccus,' which means bag, showing its long history as a container.
  • In Middle English, 'sacke' was used to refer specifically to a bag used for carrying grain or other goods.
  • The term evolved in different languages; for example, 'sac' in French and 'sacco' in Italian also mean bag.

The word 'sack' has a varied history, with different meanings and origins. In the context of football, the term comes from the early 20th century and is related to the act of bringing down the quarterback. The use of 'sack' to refer to a bag dates back to the 14th century, originating from Old French 'sac'. As a verb meaning 'dismiss', it has roots in Latin 'saccus' and Middle French 'sac'. Over time, 'sack' has evolved to encompass different meanings and contexts.

See also: sackbut, sacked, sacking.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,455 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.