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

“The Grace Blackwell system is nearly two tons, and so you’re not going to be putting that in your pocket or your backpack anytime soon,” he said, referring to the chip maker’s latest-generation AI platform.

From MarketWatch

She got a job, found a partner, started running, and booked backpacking trips.

From BBC

There are training bats, wood bats, torpedo bats and backpacks to carry them.

From The Wall Street Journal

I am walking past walls of pajamas with Disney characters, then walls of backpacks with Marvel characters.

From Los Angeles Times

The captain suggested possibly bringing hand tools or a backpack filled with water up the hill to extinguish any hot spots.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• knapsack