pocketbook

[pok-it-book]

noun

1. handbag.

2. a person's financial resources or means.

   The price was out of reach of his pocketbook.

3. Also pocket book a book, usually paperback, that is small enough to carry in one's coat pocket.

4. British.

   1. a notebook for carrying in one's pocket.

   2. a wallet or billfold.

pocketbook

/ ˈpɒkɪtˌbʊk /

noun

1. a small bag or case for money, papers, etc, carried by a handle or in the pocket

2. (modifier) concerned with personal finance

   pocketbook issues

Word History and Origins

Origin of pocketbook¹

First recorded in 1610–20; pocket + book

Example Sentences

“We understand that people understand, as people look at their pocketbooks to go to the grocery store, that there’s still work to do,” Hassett said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Washburn says she wants to change her habits for the sake of both the country—which she believes has become too dependent on cheap, imported goods—and her own pocketbook.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But they’re also taking fresh inspiration from Mamdani’s win, pointing to his inclusive, unapologetic campaign and his relentless focus on pocketbook issues, particularly among working-class voters.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The school that produced Milton Friedman and 34 other Nobel Prize-winning economists is struggling to manage its pocketbook.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Many felt somewhat soothed by his willingness to meet with them and listen to their concerns, even if his platform appears at odds with their pocketbook interests.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• handbag 
• pouch 
• purse 
• suitcase 
• wallet