backpack

American  

[bak-pak] / ˈbækˌpæk /

noun

1. a pack or knapsack, often of canvas or nylon, to be carried on one's back, sometimes supported on a lightweight metal frame strapped to the body.

2. a piece of equipment designed to be used while being carried on the back.

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verb (used without object)

1. to go on a hike, using a backpack.

   We went backpacking in the Adirondacks.

verb (used with object)

1. to place or carry in a backpack or on one's back.

backpack British  

/ ˈbækˌpæk /

noun

1. a rucksack or knapsack

2. a pack carried on the back of an astronaut, containing oxygen cylinders, essential supplies, etc

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verb

1. (intr) to travel about or go hiking with a backpack

2. (tr) to transport (food or equipment) by backpack

Other Word Forms

• backpacker noun
• backpacking noun

Etymology

Origin of backpack

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15; back ¹ + pack ¹

Example Sentences

I decided to pack my things into a personal item-sized soft backpack in both directions and only selected a seat on my return flight, which cost an extra $33.

From Los Angeles Times

His school backpack with a gun and ammunition was never inspected.

From Seattle Times

The bomber is believed to have carried the devices, which were made of threaded galvanized pipes, kitchen timers and homemade black powder, in a backpack.

From Washington Times

On May 15, 2022, Orange County prosecutors say, Chou walked into the church with two 9-millimeter handguns and several backpacks that contained extra magazines and four Molotov cocktails.

From Los Angeles Times

The students quickly tossed their backpacks aside, sat down at library tables and launched into matches.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• knapsack