clutch bag: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to formal; common in fashion and lifestyle contexts.
Quick answer
What does “clutch bag” mean?
A small, strapless handbag designed to be held in the hand or tucked under the arm.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, strapless handbag designed to be held in the hand or tucked under the arm.
A formal or elegant evening bag, often used for special occasions. It can also refer to a small, flat case for carrying essentials, sometimes with a detachable strap.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term identically. 'Clutch' alone can also refer to the bag in both (e.g., 'She carried a clutch').
Connotations
Identical connotations of formality and style.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “clutch bag” in a Sentence
carry + clutch baghold + clutch bagmatch + clutch bag + to + outfittuck + clutch bag + under + armVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “clutch bag” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She had to clutch her bag tightly in the crowd.
- He clutched the bag under his arm as he ran.
American English
- She clutched her bag when she felt a bump.
- He was clutching his bag like it held gold.
adjective
British English
- The clutch bag style is essential for black-tie events.
- She preferred a clutch bag design for the theatre.
American English
- The clutch bag trend is popular for weddings.
- She bought a new clutch bag purse for the gala.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in retail/fashion business contexts discussing product lines.
Academic
Very rare; not an academic term.
Everyday
Common when discussing fashion, accessories, or preparing for formal events.
Technical
Used in fashion design, manufacturing, and merchandising.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “clutch bag”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “clutch bag”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clutch bag”
- Using 'clutch bag' to refer to a bag with a long strap. Confusing it with the verb 'to clutch' meaning to grasp tightly.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In American English, 'purse' can be a general term for a handbag, so a clutch is a type of purse. In British English, 'purse' usually means a small coin wallet, so 'clutch bag' is more specific.
Traditionally, no. The defining feature is being strapless. However, many modern designs include a detachable chain or strap for versatility, but when worn with the strap, it functions more as a shoulder bag.
Primarily for formal or semi-formal events like weddings, galas, cocktail parties, or evening dinners where a large bag would be impractical or inelegant.
In fashion contexts, they are synonymous. 'Clutch' is simply the shortened form of 'clutch bag'.
A small, strapless handbag designed to be held in the hand or tucked under the arm.
Clutch bag is usually neutral to formal; common in fashion and lifestyle contexts. in register.
Clutch bag: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklʌtʃ ˌbæɡ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklətʃ ˌbæɡ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine CLUTCHing the bag tightly in your hand at a party, so you don't drop it.
Conceptual Metaphor
A FASHION ACCESSORY IS A TOOL FOR ELEGANCE / COMPACTNESS IS SOPHISTICATION.
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining feature of a clutch bag?