What does valise mean?
A valise is a small suitcase or traveling bag used to carry clothing and personal belongings on a journey. In modern English, the word often has a slightly old-fashioned or genteel quality, but it remains useful for describing a compact, traditional case without suggesting the bulk of a large wheeled suitcase. Valise can appear in practical travel settings, as in packing a leather valise or carrying several valises through a station, and it also has a literary or nostalgic association with older forms of travel. The word entered English from French, which borrowed it from Italian, and its deeper historical origin is uncertain. Today, suitcase is the usual general term, while valise offers a more specific and evocative alternative. Choosing it can emphasize the case's compact size, traditional construction, or role as an individual piece of a traveler’s luggage rather than the belongings collectively.
nounA valise is a small suitcase or traveling bag used to carry clothing and personal belongings on a journey. The word often suggests a compact, traditional case rather than a modern wheeled suitcase.
- A small suitcase or traveling bag for carrying clothes and personal belongings, especially on a journey.
"She packed a leather valise for the overnight train."
"She packed a leather valise for the overnight train."
"The hotel porter carried the guests' valises up the stairs."
The standard plural is valises; when referring to several pieces of luggage collectively, plural valises is appropriate.
"The porter brought two large valises to the hotel room."
Valise sounds like a grander kind of luggage, but its name comes from a practical European tradition of packing clothes into compact cases for travel.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does valise come from?
Valise entered English in the early 17th century from French valise, which was borrowed from Italian valigia. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, although the word is conventionally traced to a medieval Latin form. Related forms include Italian valigia and Spanish valija, reflecting the word's wider movement through European languages.
How valise is actually used
In modern English, valise has a somewhat old-fashioned or genteel tone and is less common than suitcase or bag. It remains natural in travel contexts and in descriptions of traditional or formal luggage.
Easily confused with valise
A valise is an individual bag or case, whereas luggage collectively refers to the bags and belongings carried on a journey.
A valise is a general term for a traveling bag, while a portmanteau specifically describes a long bag designed to be carried over the shoulder.