pocketbook

American  

[pok-it-book] / ˈpɒk ɪtˌbʊk /

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.

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pocketbook British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of pocketbook

First recorded in 1610–20; pocket + book

Example Sentences

“As long as I am asking my neighbors to make appropriations for anything that contributes to their taxes…I don’t get anything from the state or their pocketbook to do this job,” he says.

From The Wall Street Journal

With midterm elections coming in November, pocketbook subjects like the cost of groceries and utilities appear poised to grab a bigger share of voters’ attention — and ire.

From MarketWatch

Sentiment was nearly 30% below the level in December 2024 “as pocketbook issues continue to dominate consumer views of the economy,” the report said.

From MarketWatch

Also to “Merrily’s” advantage is consumers’ desire to mind their pocketbooks in a challenging economic environment.

From Los Angeles Times

By the early 20th century, dictionaries of American slang show gravy drifting from the plate to the pocketbook.

From Salon

Related Words

• handbag
• pouch
• purse
• suitcase
• wallet