Suitcases: meaning, definitions and examples

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suitcases

[ˈsuːt.keɪs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

travel

A suitcase is a large bag used for carrying clothes and personal belongings when traveling. It typically has a handle for easy carrying and wheels for convenience.

Synonyms

baggage, luggage, travel case.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
suitcases	Refers specifically to one or more cases or boxes used for carrying personal belongings during travel. Used when emphasizing the individual pieces of travel gear. I need to buy new suitcases for our trip She packed her clothes into two large suitcases
luggage	Similar to baggage but slightly less formal, generally referring to all the travel bags a person has. Commonly used in travel contexts and customer service. Where can I pick up my luggage after the flight? The hotel provides luggage storage for guests
baggage	A more formal term, typically used collectively to describe all the bags, cases, and other containers a person takes with them when traveling. Also has a metaphorical use to describe emotional burdens. Please leave your baggage at the check-in counter He couldn't come to terms with his emotional baggage from the past
travel case	Used to describe a specific type of carrying case, usually smaller and designed for organized travel, such as carrying documents or toiletries. Can imply a sense of purpose and organization. She bought a new travel case for her makeup I keep all my important documents in this travel case

Examples of usage

I packed my clothes in the suitcase for my trip to Europe.
She struggled to lift the heavy suitcase onto the luggage rack.
The suitcase was lost during the flight, causing inconvenience to the traveler.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'suitcase' dates back to the 17th century when 'case' referred to a container, and 'suit' meant a set of clothes.
Before modern suitcases, travelers used trunks that were often large and heavy to hold their belongings.
The invention of the suitcase with wheels in the 1970s revolutionized travel, making it easier to handle heavy loads.

Cultural Significance

Suitcases are often depicted in films and stories as symbols of travel and adventure, representing new beginnings.
In various cultures, the act of packing a suitcase can be a ritual, marking significant life changes or journeys.
In literature, a suitcase can represent the emotional baggage a person carries, alluding to personal struggles or journeys.

Technology

Modern suitcases can now come with built-in technology, such as tracking devices and USB chargers to keep devices powered.
Hard-shell suitcases are engineered to provide better protection for fragile items compared to traditional soft bags.
Some high-end suitcases possess features like weight sensors to help travelers avoid extra airline fees.

Psychology

Packing a suitcase can trigger excitement or anxiety, often reflecting a traveler's anticipation or apprehension about the journey ahead.
The organization of a suitcase may reflect the packer’s personality—neat and orderly versus haphazard and spontaneous.
Research shows that the process of travel itself can significantly boost happiness and well-being, tied to the experiences associated with suitcases.

Pop Culture

Suitcases often appear in adventure and mystery movies, like those carried by spies or treasure hunters, creating a sense of intrigue.
In musical theater, 'suitcase' has been used as a metaphor in songs about leaving home or embarking on new journeys.
Traveling with a distinctive suitcase can become a personal brand, as seen with celebrities who choose custom designs to stand out in airports.

Translations

Translations of the word "suitcases" in other languages:

🇵🇹 malas

🇮🇳 सूटकेस

🇩🇪 Koffer

🇮🇩 koper

🇺🇦 валізи

🇵🇱 walizki

🇯🇵 スーツケース

🇫🇷 valises

🇪🇸 maletas

🇹🇷 bavullar

🇰🇷 여행 가방

🇸🇦 حقائب

🇨🇿 kufry

🇸🇰 kufre

🇨🇳 行李箱

🇸🇮 kovčki

🇮🇸 ferðatöskur

🇰🇿 чемодандар

🇬🇪 ჩანთები

🇦🇿 çemodanlar

🇲🇽 maletas