handbag
handbag
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "handbag" is /ˈhænd.bæɡ/.
hand: /ˈhænd/
bag: /bæɡ/
Word Form Variations
Noun: handbag (singular), handbags (plural)
Adjective: (No direct adjective form; "handbag-sized" is a common compound adjective)
Verb: (No direct verb form)
Adverb: (No direct adverb form)
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
Handbag
A small bag carried by women, typically for personal items such as a wallet, keys, and cosmetics.
Synonyms: purse (US usage), clutch, satchel, tote, shoulder bag, carryall
Antonyms: briefcase, backpack (larger, for different purposes), wallet (smaller, for money only)
Examples of Use
Books
Fiction: Novels often describe characters carrying a "handbag" as a detail of their appearance or to hold plot-relevant items. "She clutched her handbag tightly as she hurried through the dark alley."
Fashion History Books: These extensively document the evolution of the "handbag" as a fashion accessory through different eras. "The 1920s saw the rise of the elaborate beaded handbag" (Thames & Hudson, October 2023).
Self-help/Organization Books: Some guides offer tips on how to organize the contents of your "handbag."
Newspapers
Fashion & Style Sections: Newspapers regularly feature articles on new "handbag" trends, designer handbags, or celebrity handbag choices. "The latest designer handbag collection is turning heads at Fashion Week" (Vogue, March 2025).
News Articles (Crime): Reports sometimes mention a stolen "handbag" or a handbag containing important evidence. "Police are investigating a handbag snatching incident in the city center" (The Standard, June 2025).
Lifestyle Columns: These might offer advice on choosing the perfect handbag for different occasions.
Online Publications
E-commerce Sites: Retailers like Nordstrom, Amazon, or luxury brand websites sell a vast array of "handbags," categorized by style, material, and designer. "Browse our selection of genuine leather handbags."
Fashion Blogs/Vlogs: Bloggers and YouTubers frequently create content about "handbag hauls," "what's in my handbag," or reviews of new handbag releases. "My top 5 everyday handbags for work and play."
Social Media: Users share photos of their new handbags, discuss their favorite brands, or seek recommendations. "Obsessed with my new vintage handbag find! #HandbagLove"
News Sites: Online news might report on auctions of rare historical handbags or the market for pre-owned luxury handbags.
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms
Movies/TV Shows: Characters are frequently seen carrying a "handbag" as a natural part of their attire or using it as a prop (e.g., pulling out a surprising item, using it to hit someone). "She rummaged through her handbag for her keys."
Commercials: Advertisements for fashion brands, perfumes, or even cars often feature models or actors carrying stylish handbags.
Video Games: Character customization options might include different types of "handbags" as accessories. Some adventure games might have an inventory slot for a character's handbag.
Podcasts (Fashion/Lifestyle): Hosts discuss current handbag trends, the history of iconic handbags, or ethical sourcing of handbag materials.
General Public Discourse
Conversations: In daily speech, people commonly ask, "Can you hold my handbag for a second?" or "I need a new handbag to match this outfit." "Did you remember your handbag?"
Shopping: Consumers discuss brands, styles, and prices of handbags when shopping.
Travel: People talk about the best handbag to carry while traveling for security and convenience.
Lost and Found: Items often include descriptions of lost handbags.
Figurative Use: Though rare, sometimes used to imply a female's personal space or secrets, as in "don't look in my handbag."
10 Quotes Using Handbag
"A handbag?" (Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest)
"A woman's handbag often contains the true, unseen essentials of her daily life."
"The subtle weight of a handbag can silently tell a story of its owner's busy day."
"Sometimes, the most surprising and vital items emerge from a seemingly ordinary handbag."
"A classic handbag is far more than a mere accessory; it is a profound statement of personal style."
"She found unexpected comfort in the familiar, organized contents of her trusty handbag."
"The modern handbag has seamlessly evolved into a portable command center for many."
"He realized that even a small handbag could hold a complete universe of daily necessities."
"Every worn corner and subtle scratch on an old handbag tells a unique tale of past adventures."
"The simple, personal act of choosing a handbag can reflect one's mood, ambition, or upcoming journey."
Etymology
The word "handbag" is a compound word formed from "hand" and "bag."
The word "hand" comes from the Old English word "hand," referring to the end part of the arm.
The word "bag" comes from the Old Norse word "baggi," meaning a "bundle" or "package."
The combination "handbag" first appeared in English around the early 19th century. Its first known use referred to a small bag carried in the hand, typically by women, for personal items, directly combining the sense of "carried by hand" with "a container."
Phrases + Idioms Containing Handbag
Handbag dog: A small dog, typically carried in a handbag. "Her tiny chihuahua was a classic handbag dog."
Handbag essential: An item typically considered a necessity to carry in a handbag. "My phone is a true handbag essential."
Dig in one's handbag: To search through a handbag for something. "She had to dig in her handbag for her keys."
Clutch one's handbag: To hold a handbag tightly, often due to anxiety or protectiveness. "She clutched her handbag tightly as she walked through the crowd."
Handbag thief: A person who steals handbags, typically by snatching them. "Police issued a warning about handbag thieves in the area."
Handbagging (informal): To subject someone to aggressive or domineering criticism. "The politician was accused of handbagging the junior minister."
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of handbag from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
