tote bag

noun

1. an open handbag or shopping bag used especially for carrying packages or small items.

tote bag

noun

1. a large roomy handbag or shopping bag

Word History and Origins

Origin of tote bag¹

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

And at a recent pop-up event for heritage brand Barbour during London Fashion Week, visitors received a free customised checked tote bag and a bouquet of dried flowers from a Scottish florist.

From BBC

With sanitary pads in his pockets and a tote bag full of feminist literature, Aiman Kaiden knew he was ready to compete.

From BBC

In his enthusiasm, he admits he has gone “a little overboard” and created his own line of merchandise: Kitchen Video hats, aprons, tote bags and membership cards.

From Los Angeles Times

She was buying two bucket hats and a tote bag for herself.

From Los Angeles Times

Maybe, like all the best underdogs — your second-favorite tote bag, the backup perfume you suddenly can’t live without — it doesn’t need to be flashy to be indispensable.

From Salon

Related Words

• shopping bag