suitcase

American  

[soot-keys] / ˈsutˌkeɪs /

noun

1. a usually rectangular piece of luggage especially for carrying clothes while traveling.

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suitcase British  

/ ˈsjuːt-, ˈsuːtˌkeɪs /

noun

1. a portable rectangular travelling case, usually stiffened, for carrying clothing, etc

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suitcase Idioms  

1. see live out (of a suitcase).

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Etymology

Origin of suitcase

First recorded in 1900–05; suit + case ²

Compare meaning

How does suitcase compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• briefcase vs. suitcase
• suitcase vs. luggage

Example Sentences

She offered a handy piece of advice: “I always pack a collapsible duffel on big trips and fill it with clothes on the way home so I can bring home half a suitcase of food.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“But I lost my place. Between those, I had everything. ... I had amassed so much stuff over 43 years. Just to have it all gone except the suitcase I took — unbelievable.”

From Los Angeles Times

Now homeless, the Cheungs have moved into a hotel, all of their belongings stored in a bright yellow plastic rolling suitcase small enough to fit into an airplane’s overhead bin.

From The Wall Street Journal

Around 3:49 p.m. that day, she walked out with a suitcase of clothes, five weeks’ worth of medication — and no cellphone or ID.

From Los Angeles Times

This suitcase has location-tracking technology built into its lock, which means he can at least trace his bag as it enjoys a completely different vacation.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• bag
• carry-on
• satchel