knapsack

[ nap-sak ]

noun

1. a canvas, nylon, or leather bag for clothes, food, and other supplies, carried on the back by soldiers, hikers, etc.

knapsack

/ ˈnæpˌsæk /

noun

1. a canvas or leather bag carried strapped on the back or shoulder

Other Words From

• knapsacked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of knapsack¹

1595–1605; < Low German knappsack, equivalent to knapp a bite (of food) + sack sack ¹; compare dialectal English knap to snap up, eat greedily

Word History and Origins

Origin of knapsack¹

C17: from Low German knappsack, probably from knappen to bite, snap + sack bag; related to Dutch knapzak; see sack ¹

Example Sentences

They strapped on a machine that looks a bit like a knapsack and provides a robotic boost for the lower back.

From Science Daily

After Palacios opened his knapsack, he removed the picnic lunch he had prepared that morning — quesadillas with ham, cheese and nopalitos.

From Los Angeles Times

His knapsack slipped off, but he didn’t stop.

From Literature

The Champagne — worth $2,900 in all — was pulled out of Gonzalez’ knapsack and returned to the guests who had ordered it, according to prosecutors.

From Seattle Times

Adelekan said the man’s knapsack was blown up in a controlled explosion after the suspect told officers to handle it with care.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• duffel bag
• satchel