What does holdall mean?
A holdall is a large, sturdy bag intended for carrying clothing, travel essentials, sports equipment, or other personal belongings. Its name suggests that it can hold everything needed at once. Holdalls are commonly made from canvas, leather, nylon, or other durable materials and may have shoulder straps or handles. They are especially associated with travel, weekends away, and organized sport, where a single spacious bag is more convenient than several smaller items. The term is most frequent in British English, although it is also understood in American English, where “duffel bag” may be preferred. Compared with a suitcase, a holdall is typically softer, less structured, and easier to carry by hand or over the shoulder. Its broad usefulness has made it a familiar name for everything from gym bags to kit bags for team sports.
nounA large, sturdy bag used for carrying clothes, travel essentials, and other personal belongings.
- A large, often soft-sided bag used for carrying clothing, travel items, sports equipment, or other personal belongings.
"She packed her clothes and toiletries in a canvas holdall for the weekend."
"The team's kit was packed into several large holdalls before the match."
"He kept his gym clothes and shoes in a separate holdall."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several worn holdalls were stacked beside the changing room."
A holdall is the practical predecessor of the rolling suitcase: one big bag that can carry everything at once.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does holdall come from?
Holdall is a compound formed in English from “hold” and “all,” expressing the idea of a container for everything one needs. Both elements are native English words: “hold” comes from Old English haldan, while “all” comes from Old English eall. The compound has been used since the 19th century, particularly for a general-purpose or military kit bag, and its modern sense continues that association with a spacious container.
How holdall is actually used
The word is most common in British English and conveys the practical, informal idea of a capacious general-purpose bag. In American English, “duffel bag” is more usual.
Easily confused with holdall
Holdall and hold-all are variant spellings of the same word, with holdall being the more usual modern form.