Carpetbag - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A carpetbag is a large traveling bag made of carpet fabric, historically used in the 19th century. The term also refers to outsiders, especially politicians, who seek influence in a new area.
Definition:
A large traveling bag made of carpet material, historically used by Northerners moving South after the Civil War.
Synonyms:
suitcase, travel bag, duffel, satchel
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
backpack, briefcase
Common Collocations:
carry a carpetbag, pack a carpetbag, old-fashioned carpetbag
Derivatives:
carpetbagger, carpetbagging
Usage Tips:
Use "carpetbag" to describe a historical or vintage-style travel bag, not modern luggage.
Common Phrases:
carpetbag politician, carpetbag scheme, packed like a carpetbag
Etymology:
Originated in the 19th century from "carpet" (material) + "bag," referring to luggage used by opportunistic Northerners in the South.
Examples:
- 1. She carried her belongings in a worn-out carpetbag.
- 2. The antique shop sold an old-fashioned carpetbag from the 1800s.
- 3. He packed his clothes hastily into the large carpetbag.
- 4. The traveler’s carpetbag was heavy with souvenirs.