backpack
/ˈbækˌpæk/
NOUN
1. A bag carried on the back
A bag with shoulder straps, designed to be carried on a person's back for transporting belongings, supplies, or equipment.
1.1. General carrying bag
A portable bag worn on the back to carry personal belongings, everyday items, or supplies.
Synonyms
Examples
- She packed her backpack with clothes and toiletries for the trip.
- He carried a lightweight backpack while exploring the city.
- The traveler placed a water bottle in the side pocket of the backpack.
Related Words
1.2. School bag
A backpack used by students to carry books, stationery, notebooks, and other school supplies.
Synonyms
- school bag
- knapsack
- rucksack
Examples
- The student put her textbooks and notebooks into her backpack.
- He forgot his school backpack at home.
- The children decorated their backpacks with colorful keychains.
Related Words
1.3. Hiking and outdoor equipment bag
A backpack designed to carry food, water, clothing, and camping equipment during hiking, trekking, or outdoor activities.
Synonyms
Examples
- The hikers adjusted their backpacks before beginning the mountain trail.
- She carried a large backpack containing a tent, food, and sleeping gear.
- A well-fitted backpack makes long-distance trekking more comfortable.
Related Words
- hiking
- trekking
- camping
- outdoor gear
- trail
1.4. Parachute or life-support equipment pack
A pack worn on the back that contains a parachute or other equipment needed for survival or support.
Synonyms
- parachute pack
- equipment pack
Examples
- The skydiver checked the straps of the backpack containing the parachute before boarding the aircraft.
Related Words
- parachute
- harness
- life-support system
- safety equipment
- deployment
VERB
2. To travel with a backpack
To travel or explore while carrying one's belongings in a backpack, often using inexpensive accommodation and a flexible itinerary.
2.1. Budget travel and exploration
To travel independently with minimal luggage, usually seeking affordable accommodation and transportation.
Synonyms
Examples
- They plan to backpack across Southeast Asia for three months.
- She backpacked through Europe after graduating from university.
- Many young travelers backpack around the world on a limited budget.
Related Words
- backpacker
- hostel
- budget travel
- itinerary
- adventure
2.2. Hiking and camping overnight
To hike into a remote or rural area and camp overnight while carrying camping equipment in a backpack.
Synonyms
- hike
- trek
- camp
- go backpacking
Examples
- The group backpacked through the national park and camped beside a lake.
- He enjoys backpacking in remote mountain areas during the summer.
Related Words
- backcountry
- wilderness
- campsite
- trail
- overnight camping
VERB
3. To put or carry items in a backpack
To place items into a backpack or carry them using one.
3.1. Packing items into a backpack
To load belongings, supplies, or equipment into a backpack for carrying.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- unpack
- empty
Examples
- She backpacked her lunch and water before leaving for school.
- The campers backpacked their essential supplies before setting off.