What does knapsack mean?
A knapsack is a sturdy, usually fabric bag carried on the back or over one shoulder, traditionally used by walkers, travelers, students, and workers. It is similar to a backpack and rucksack, but the term has a somewhat traditional and durable character, often suggesting a bag designed for carrying a moderate load over long distances. A knapsack may contain books, clothing, food, tools, or other personal items. In figurative use, a knapsack can represent a burden, responsibility, or difficult problem that someone must bear. The word is used in both British and American English and is appropriate in formal and informal contexts.
A sturdy bag with shoulder straps, used for carrying personal belongings, books, clothing, food, or equipment.
"He put his passport and money in his knapsack."
The word is common in British and American English for a bag carried on the back or over one shoulder.
A figurative burden or responsibility carried by a person or institution.
"The region is struggling under the knapsack of debt."
This sense is chiefly literary or metaphorical.
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one bag.
"The travelers set their knapsacks beside the door."
The word knapsack was borrowed from German, where it became a common symbol of travel and walking long before modern hiking gear was invented.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of knapsack
The word entered English in the 19th century from German Knapsack. German had borrowed the term from Czech, in which knapsack referred to a type of bag or pack. The English word initially retained associations with a small bag carried on the back before becoming a general term for portable shoulder bags.
Related word forms
How knapsack is actually used
The word is neutral in register and can describe a bag used for travel, school, work, or outdoor activities. The figurative sense is more literary and often implies a persistent or demanding burden.
Easily confused with knapsack
A knapsack is a general term for a shoulder-carried bag, while a backpack usually has two straps worn over the shoulders and is often designed specifically for carrying books or school materials.