holdall: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, but standard. More common in British English.
Quick answer
What does “holdall” mean?
A large, soft bag with handles, used for carrying clothes and other personal items, especially when traveling.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, soft bag with handles, used for carrying clothes and other personal items, especially when traveling.
A container or receptacle capable of holding a variety of items; by extension, something or someone that encompasses or contains a wide range of things.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'holdall' is a common, standard term. In American English, the equivalent terms are 'duffel bag' or 'overnight bag'. 'Holdall' is understood but rarely used in the US.
Connotations
In the UK, it connotes practicality and casual travel. In the US, using 'holdall' might sound slightly British or old-fashioned.
Frequency
High frequency in UK English for this object type. Very low frequency in US English.
Grammar
How to Use “holdall” in a Sentence
VERB + holdall (pack, carry, lift)ADJECTIVE + holdall (large, soft, canvas)holdall + OF + NOUN (holdall of clothes)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used informally for a bag brought to a conference or overnight business trip.
Academic
Very rare. Not a technical term in any common discipline.
Everyday
Common in UK English for discussing travel, gym, or weekend packing.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “holdall”
- Using 'holdall' in American English where 'duffel bag' is expected.
- Spelling as two words: 'hold all'.
- Using it to refer to a small handbag or purse.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A holdall is typically a soft, unstructured bag, while a suitcase is rigid with a hard shell.
You will be understood, but it will mark you as a British English speaker. 'Duffel bag' is the standard American term.
In modern usage, they are essentially synonyms for the same type of bag. 'Holdall' is British, 'duffel bag' is American.
It is one word: 'holdall'.
A large, soft bag with handles, used for carrying clothes and other personal items, especially when traveling.
Holdall is usually informal, but standard. more common in british english. in register.
Holdall: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhəʊldɔːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhoʊldɑːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's a walking holdall of useless facts.”
- “The new policy is a holdall for various unpopular measures.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: You HOLD ALL your things in a HOLDAIL.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR A COLLECTION (e.g., 'a holdall of ideas').
Practice
Quiz
Which term is the most common American English equivalent for the British 'holdall'?