baggage

American  

[bag-ij] / ˈbæg ɪdʒ /

noun

1. trunks, suitcases, etc., used in traveling; luggage.

2. the portable equipment of an army.

3. things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments.

   intellectual baggage that keeps one from thinking clearly; neurotic conflicts that arise from struggling with too much emotional baggage.

4. Archaic.

   1. a worthless woman.

   2. a prostitute or disreputable woman.

   3. Often Disparaging. a pert, playful young woman or girl.

      a pretty baggage; a saucy baggage.

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baggage British  

/ ˈbæɡɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. suitcases, bags, etc, packed for a journey; luggage

   2. ( as modifier )

      baggage car

2. an army's portable equipment

3. informal

   1. a pert young woman

   2. an immoral woman or prostitute

4. informal a cantankerous old woman

5. informal previous knowledge and experience that a person may use or be influenced by in new circumstances

   cultural baggage

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Etymology

Origin of baggage

1400–50; late Middle English bagage < Middle French, equivalent to Old French bag ( ues ) bundles, packs (perhaps < Old Norse; bag ) + -age -age

Example Sentences

“Airlines monetize everything from extra baggage to getting a bag of peanuts,” Taylor said.

From MarketWatch

Most of the same passengers stood up without assistance and bounded off toward the baggage claim.

From The Wall Street Journal

He adds that CZT-based scanners are currently in use for explosives detection at UK airports, and for scanning checked baggage in some US airports.

From BBC

As Hernandez points out, every year brings a new crop of filmmakers who are experiencing the festival for the very first time, so they do not come in with the baggage of expectations.

From Los Angeles Times

“Add to that everyone’s emotional baggage about money, and couples have a lot to deal with.”

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• equipment
• gear
• luggage
• paraphernalia