What does pocket mean?
A pocket is a small compartment sewn into clothing or attached to a bag, as well as any similar small recess or enclosed space. The word can also refer figuratively to money available to someone, to a person's overall financial resources, or to a group that has a special position within a larger organization. Expressions such as 'in one's pocket,' 'pocket money,' and 'deep pockets' show how frequently the literal idea of carrying something close at hand has developed into idiomatic language about money, control, and advantage. As a verb, 'to pocket' means to put something in a pocket, but it can also mean to keep money or an opportunity for oneself, sometimes with the implication of doing so unfairly. As an adjective, 'pocket' describes something small enough to be carried in a pocket. Together, its senses connect a familiar physical container with ideas of privacy, resources, and self-interest.
A small pouch or compartment sewn into clothing or attached to a bag; by extension, a small enclosed space, a sum of money available for use, or a person's financial resources.
"The coins fell into the pocket of his backpack."
In figurative uses, 'a pocket' can mean a small group with a distinct role or influence within a larger group.
To put something into a pocket, or to keep money, an advantage, or an opportunity for oneself.
"The company pocketed the savings from the restructuring."
The sense involving keeping money or advantages for oneself can suggest unfairness or opportunism.
Small enough or designed to fit in a pocket; compact and portable.
"A pocket-size camera was enough for the trip."
This use is normally attributive or used in the compound 'pocket-sized.'
The regular plural is 'pockets'; it is used for physical compartments, financial resources, and figurative groups or positions.
"She searched all her pockets for the missing ticket."
A pocket can be a tiny piece of fabric, a private hiding place, or a sign of considerable wealth: having a pocket—or deep pockets—can mean having money or influence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pocket come from?
The word comes through Middle English from an Old French form related to 'poche,' meaning a bag or pouch. English developed several forms before settling on 'pocket,' whose modern sense was established by the early modern period. The word belongs to a wider European vocabulary of pouch and bag terms, although modern forms in other languages do not always preserve the exact same historical development.
Related word forms
How pocket is actually used
The noun is common in everyday English and appears in both literal and figurative expressions. As a verb, 'pocket' can suggest keeping money or an advantage for oneself and may have a mildly disapproving tone when used of unfairly taking advantage of an opportunity. The adjective is usually used in compounds or before a noun, as in 'pocket-sized.'
Easily confused with pocket
A pocket is usually a fixed compartment in clothing or a bag, whereas a pouch is generally a separate, flexible container.
A pock is a small pustule or spot on the skin, while a pocket is a container, compartment, or figurative financial resource.