cargo pocket: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to Informal; common in fashion, retail, and practical descriptions of clothing.
Quick answer
What does “cargo pocket” mean?
A large patch pocket, usually with accordion pleats and a flap closure, originally designed for carrying heavy items on work or military clothing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large patch pocket, usually with accordion pleats and a flap closure, originally designed for carrying heavy items on work or military clothing.
A style of pocket characterized by its size, box-pleated sides for expansion, and typically a buttoned or snap-fastened flap, now commonly found on casual and utility-style trousers, shorts, and jackets beyond its original military/workwear context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is identical and equally understood. Minor spelling variations (e.g., 'pleated' vs. 'pleated') are not specific to this term.
Connotations
Strongly associated with utilitarian, military-surplus, or casual 'cargo trousers/shorts'. In fashion, can connote a practical, rugged, or streetwear style.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both dialects due to the global nature of fashion and clothing retail.
Grammar
How to Use “cargo pocket” in a Sentence
The [garment] has cargo pockets.She prefers trousers with cargo pockets.The cargo pocket on his [garment] was torn.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cargo pocket” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- This style is often cargo-pocketed for practicality.
- They cargo-pocketed the new range of utility trousers.
American English
- The designer cargo-pocketed all the shorts in the collection.
- These pants are cargo-pocketed for extra storage.
adjective
British English
- The cargo-pocket detailing is very popular.
- He wore cargo-pocket trousers.
American English
- It's a cargo-pocket style.
- Look for cargo-pocket shorts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in fashion retail, product descriptions, and supply chain contexts for garment specifications.
Academic
Rare; potentially in design, textiles, or cultural studies discussing fashion or uniform history.
Everyday
Common when describing casual clothing, especially for its utility.
Technical
Used in garment design, pattern making, and military equipment descriptions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cargo pocket”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cargo pocket”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cargo pocket”
- Using 'cargo' as an adjective for other pocket types (e.g., 'cargo zip pocket'). 'Cargo' specifically denotes the large, pleated, flapped style.
- Confusing with 'patch pocket' (which is simpler, without pleats).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, while most commonly associated with trousers and shorts, cargo pockets are also found on jackets, vests, and even some bags.
A patch pocket is any pocket sewn onto the outside of a garment. A cargo pocket is a specific type of patch pocket that is large, box-pleated for expansion, and usually has a flap closure.
The name comes from their original purpose on military uniforms (like those of paratroopers) to carry a substantial 'cargo' or load of equipment and ammunition.
It is a standard, neutral term in fashion and clothing description. It is not overly technical but is more specific than simply saying 'big pocket'.
A large patch pocket, usually with accordion pleats and a flap closure, originally designed for carrying heavy items on work or military clothing.
Cargo pocket: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːɡəʊ ˌpɒkɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːrɡoʊ ˌpɑːkɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Loaded with pockets like cargo pants (informal, implying excessive storage or features).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CAR going with a GOal to carry lots of stuff. A CARGO pocket is for carrying a large 'cargo' of items.
Conceptual Metaphor
POCKET IS A CONTAINER (specifically, a large, rugged container for transport).
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining feature of a cargo pocket?