briefcase

American  

[breef-keys] / ˈbrifˌkeɪs /

noun

1. a flat, rectangular case with a handle, often of leather, for carrying books, papers, etc.

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briefcase British  

/ ˈbriːfˌkeɪs /

noun

1. a flat portable case, often of leather, for carrying papers, books, etc

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Etymology

Origin of briefcase

1925–30; brief (noun) + case ²

Compare meaning

How does briefcase compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• briefcase vs. suitcase

Example Sentences

Whitehouse added: "Bye bye Ted old friend. He wasn't a dog; he was a species all of his own. He's gone to the great briefcase emporium in the sky. We will really miss you mate."

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

The bit of the show that kept people glued to their screens was that the contestant then got an offer from a hidden “banker” for the first, unopened briefcase.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

He carried a script he was writing in a slim briefcase, which he’d shuttle back and forth from the brand-new Starbucks down the street.

From Salon • Nov. 23, 2025

The first thing to note is that it will be Rachel Reeves holding that briefcase for the second time on 26 November.

From BBC • Sep. 6, 2025

At five thirty, Dad parallel parks in the space in front of our house and goes into the backseat for his briefcase.

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King

Related Words

• bag
• baggage
• folder