baggage

[ bag-ij ]

noun

1. trunks, suitcases, etc., used in traveling; luggage.
2. the portable equipment of an army.
3. things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments:

   intellectual baggage that keeps one from thinking clearly; neurotic conflicts that arise from struggling with too much emotional baggage.

4. Archaic.
   1. a worthless woman.
   2. a prostitute or disreputable woman.
   3. Often Disparaging. a pert, playful young woman or girl:

      a pretty baggage; a saucy baggage.

baggage

/ ˈbæɡɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. suitcases, bags, etc, packed for a journey; luggage
   2. ( as modifier )

      baggage car

2. an army's portable equipment
3. informal.
   1. a pert young woman
   2. an immoral woman or prostitute
4. informal.
   a cantankerous old woman
5. informal.
   previous knowledge and experience that a person may use or be influenced by in new circumstances

   cultural baggage

Word History and Origins

Origin of baggage¹

1400–50; late Middle English bagage < Middle French, equivalent to Old French bag ( ues ) bundles, packs (perhaps < Old Norse; bag ) + -age -age

Word History and Origins

Origin of baggage¹

C15: from Old French bagage , from bague a bundle, perhaps of Scandinavian origin; compare Old Norse baggi bag

Example Sentences

“In a world where there are plenty of lawyers willing to do Trump’s bidding, he chooses the candidate who has so much baggage,” Bromwich said.

From Salon

South could flourish despite the historical baggage of the American Revolution’s break from the Old World and its attendant monarchies and aristocracies.

From Salon

The Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group, announced by the government, will work to make flying accessible for all "from booking to baggage claim".

From BBC

But it is a reminder of the unpredictability and historical baggage that royal tours can bring.

From BBC

Once on the ground, passengers disembark, and all baggage and cargo and catering undergo thorough searches.

From BBC

Related Words

• equipment
• gear
• luggage
• paraphernalia