handbag

noun

hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
Synonyms of handbagnext
1
2
: a bag held in the hand or hung from a shoulder strap and used for carrying small personal articles and money

Examples of handbag in a Sentence

flies only with a handbag so he doesn't have to check his luggage her handbag is just big enough to hold her favorite photos and wallet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The outfit was completed with white gloves and a black handbag and shoes. Andrea Wurzburger, PEOPLE, 25 Apr. 2026 For newer wearables or a pre-loved handbag, clothing consignment shops offer a good variety of modern styles. Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2026 Los Angeles Police Department officers are searching for two burglary suspects who allegedly broke into a Westwood home, stealing jewelry and designer handbags. Jeff Nguyen, CBS News, 22 Apr. 2026 Below are the priciest finds across various categories such as jewelry, handbags, electronic devices, and more. Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handbag

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handbag was in 1859

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Cite this Entry

“Handbag.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/handbag. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

handbag

noun
hand·​bag ˈhan(d)-ˌbag How to pronounce handbag (audio)
1
2
: a woman's bag for carrying small personal articles and money

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