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

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

He opened briefcases and huge chests with bundles of cash.

From Barron's

There was the “football”—a black briefcase carried by military officers, handed off from one to the other, kept close to the president at all times.

From Literature

Seemingly new to the job, POTUS, presented as a level-headed leader, has been barely briefed on the workings of the nuclear football and asks the aide carrying the briefcase to run down the responses.

From Los Angeles Times

“As soon as I saw the story, I tried to push it down into my briefcase and hide it,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bag
• baggage
• folder