What does rucksack mean?
A rucksack is a sturdy bag carried on the back using two shoulder straps. It is commonly used for walking, hiking, travel, school, work, and military service, and may contain clothing, food, books, equipment, or personal possessions. The word is used in both British and American English, although backpack is more frequent in everyday American usage, while rucksack is particularly common in British English. A rucksack may also refer to a smaller bag used by schoolchildren. Compared with a handbag or shoulder bag, it emphasizes the method of carrying and usually offers greater storage capacity. The name comes from German, combining Rücken, “back,” with Sack, “bag,” so its literal meaning is “back-bag.” The word is useful when describing a bag designed to be worn on the back rather than carried by hand.
nounA large bag with shoulder straps that is carried on the back, typically for travel, school, work, or outdoor activities.
- A large bag carried on the back with a pair of shoulder straps.
"She packed water, a jacket, and a book in her rucksack before setting out."
"The guide carried maps and spare clothing in a sturdy rucksack."
"Each pupil was asked to bring a packed lunch in a labelled rucksack."
The usual plural form.
"The hikers checked their rucksacks before leaving the shelter."
The German elements Rücken, meaning “back,” and Sack, meaning “bag” make the name literally a “back-bag.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rucksack come from?
Rucksack entered English in the early 20th century from German Rucksack, a compound formed from Rücken, meaning “back,” and Sack, meaning “bag.” The word originally described a military pack carried on the back. Its use later broadened to include other large bags worn with shoulder straps, including bags for travel, school, and outdoor activities.
How rucksack is actually used
The term is natural in both British and American English, but it is somewhat more characteristic of British usage; backpack is usually the more common everyday term in the United States. In British English, “rucksack” can also name a smaller school bag, especially in older or informal contexts.
Easily confused with rucksack
A rucksack is broadly a backpack, though British usage often emphasizes a larger, sturdy bag, while backpack is especially common in American English.
A knapsack is generally smaller and may have one strap or a pair of shoulder straps, whereas a rucksack is usually a relatively large two-strapped bag.