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bag
noun
A flexible container typically made of cloth, paper, plastic, or leather, used for carrying or storing items. Can range from simple pouches to structured handbags, backpacks, or shopping bags with various closures and handles.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English
Root: baggi (bag, pack, satchel, bundle) — "do, go, move"
Example
"She packed her lunch in a brown paper bag and grabbed her laptop bag before heading to the office."
Usage Notes
Bag is highly versatile, ranging from casual (grocery bag, trash bag) to formal (briefcase, purse). Context determines formality: 'handbag' sounds more refined than 'bag.' Common in compounds: shopping bag, sleeping bag, tea bag. Slang usage exists ('that's my bag' = my preference), though less common today. Avoid confusion with 'sack' (typically larger, rougher material).