backpack

[bak-pak]

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.

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

/ ˈbækˌpæk /

noun

1. a rucksack or knapsack

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of backpack¹

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

Example Sentences

I had bought a clear plastic Dodgers backpack to take with me to Dodger games.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He carried a small backpack, wore a “Los Angeles” ballcap and a shirt with the city limits outline on the front, and handed out business cards with a link to his book project.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"They leave backpacks with dirty clothes inside and people panic, thinking they are bombs," he explained from a municipal office.

Read more on Barron's

The inquiry heard in December 2019, while he was enrolled at The Acorns, he returned to the Range school and attacked another student with a hockey stick - while also carrying a knife in a backpack.

Read more on BBC

The second, in December, involved Rudakubana returning to the Range High School and attacking a pupil with a hockey stick, while also carrying a knife in his backpack.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• knapsack