Suitcase Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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suitcase
[ˈsuːtkeɪs ]
Definition
travel accessory
A suitcase is a rectangular container typically used for carrying clothes and personal belongings while traveling. It is often equipped with a handle and wheels for ease of transport. Suitcases come in various sizes and are made from different materials to accommodate different types of trips.
Synonyms
baggage, luggage, travel bag, valise.
Examples of usage
- She packed her clothes in a large suitcase for the trip.
- He struggled with the heavy suitcase as he boarded the plane.
- The kid pulled his small suitcase through the airport.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Travel and Culture
- With the rise of air travel in the 20th century, suitcases shifted from being large and bulky to more compact and wheeled designs for easier transport.
- Fashion designers began creating stylish suitcases as travel became a status symbol, leading to branded luggage collections.
Technology
- Modern suitcases often include built-in features like USB ports, GPS tracking, and digital locks for added convenience and security.
- Some manufacturers are experimenting with smart suitcases that can follow their owners and even charge devices on the go.
Psychological Associations
- The act of packing a suitcase can create feelings of excitement and anticipation for traveling and exploring new places.
- Conversely, an over-packed suitcase might evoke anxiety about forgetting essential items or the stress of organizational chaos.
Literature and Art
- In literature, suitcases often symbolize the journey of a character, representing their past, identity, and what they choose to carry into the future.
- Artistic depictions of suitcases can evoke nostalgia, as they represent travel and the stories held within them.
Origin of 'suitcase'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'suit', originating from the French word 'suite' meaning 'to follow', and 'case', denoting a container.
- Originally, luggage referred to bags used for carrying personal items during travel and the term 'suitcase' emerged in the late 19th century.
The word 'suitcase' has its origins in the late 19th century, deriving from the combination of 'suit', which refers to a set of clothes, typically worn together for a particular occasion, and 'case', meaning a container or receptacle. The purpose of a suitcase was to hold a suite of clothing, to facilitate travel. Prior to the term 'suitcase', travelers would use wooden trunks or leather satchels to carry their belongings. Over time, changes in travel preferences led to the evolution of lighter and more portable design, leading to the modern suitcase that we use today, often made from synthetic materials and featuring wheels for easier transportation.