What does schlepping mean?
Schlepping refers to the act of carrying or dragging something heavy or cumbersome, often with great effort or reluctance. This informal verb is commonly used in American English to describe tasks that require physical exertion, such as moving furniture or luggage. It can also be used more broadly to describe any situation that feels laborious or tedious. The word often carries a connotation of frustration, boredom, or annoyance, and is frequently used in a humorous or exasperated way. For example, 'I've been schlepping this suitcase all day, I'm so tired.' Understanding the nuances of schlepping can help language learners better navigate everyday conversations in English.
verbTo carry or drag something heavy or cumbersome, often with great effort or reluctance.
- to carry or drag something heavy
- to travel or move slowly and wearily
"I spent the whole day schlepping boxes up and down the stairs."
"The movers spent hours schlepping furniture into the new apartment."
"After a long hike, we were schlepping back to the car, exhausted."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of schlepping
The verb schlepping originated from the Yiddish word 'schlep', which means 'to drag' or 'to carry'. This Yiddish term is derived from the German word 'schleppen', which has a similar meaning. Over time, the verb schlepping was adopted into American English, particularly in informal contexts.
Usage notes
Informal; often used in a humorous or exasperated way to describe carrying or dragging something heavy or cumbersome.