handbag

hand-bag · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A small bag used to carry personal items, typically carried by women.

  2. 2.

    (British) A woman's purse.

Forms

plural: handbags

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    handbag politics — aggressive political tactics (British, after Margaret Thatcher)

Related words

See also: bag, purse, wallet
Synonyms: bag, pocketbook, purse

Etymology

Compound of hand + bag, first attested in the 19th century.