What does suitcase mean?
A suitcase is a portable bag or case used for carrying clothes and personal belongings, especially on a journey. It is typically fitted with a handle and may have wheels, a telescoping handle, or an interior dividing system. In everyday use, the word usually suggests luggage large enough for several days of travel, although it can also refer to smaller cases for extended trips or special journeys. “Pack a suitcase,” “carry a suitcase,” and “suitcase handle” are common expressions. The word is neutral in register and understood throughout the English-speaking world. Its compound structure reflects its history: a suitcase was a case intended for holding suits and other clothing, before it became a general term for a travel case. Although “luggage” is often used for the belongings and bags taken on a trip collectively, “suitcase” identifies one particular container.
nounA portable container, usually with a handle and sometimes wheels, used for carrying clothes, personal belongings, or travel items.
- A portable container used to carry clothing, personal belongings, or other items, especially when travelling.
"She packed her suitcase the night before the flight."
"He lifted the heavy suitcase into the trunk of the car."
"The airport provides a trolley for passengers carrying large suitcases."
The plural is formed by adding “-s” and is used when referring to more than one suitcase.
"The porter carried four suitcases up to the hotel room."
The word combines “suit” and “case”: a suitcase was originally a case for holding suits and other clothing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does suitcase come from?
“Suitcase” is a compound of “suit” and “case,” both of which entered English from French. “Suit” developed from the French suite, referring originally to a legal pursuit or following and later to a set of matching garments. “Case” came through Old French from Latin capsa, meaning a box or container. The compound became established in the 19th century for a case in which clothes, including suits, could be carried.
How suitcase is actually used
The term is standard in British and American English. It generally refers to a relatively large, rigid or semi-rigid travel bag, though “suitcase” can also be used more broadly for smaller cases.
Easily confused with suitcase
Luggage refers collectively to bags and other items used for travel, whereas a suitcase is one individual bag.