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

Southwest Airlines turned heads when it shifted away from decades-old practices and embraced baggage fees and assigned passenger seating, but now it forecasts a big boost for 2026 profit because of those changes.

From Barron's

But he comes with baggage that could give pause to any president seeking a loyalist.

From The Wall Street Journal

Of this, 1.11 billion euros was ancillary revenue, which covers services such as baggage fees and food on board.

From The Wall Street Journal

Airlines said they had begun moving resources around to keep planes from getting stuck and to allocate staff toward hubs where they’ll be most helpful with expected passenger and baggage backlogs.

From Barron's

Its worst finish was fourth, for baggage handling.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• equipment
• gear
• luggage
• paraphernalia