wallet

[ wol-it, waw-lit ]

noun

1. a flat, folding pocketbook, especially one large enough to hold paper money, credit cards, driver's license, etc., and sometimes having a compartment for coins.
2. Chiefly British. a bag for carrying food, clothing, toilet articles, etc., during a journey; knapsack or rucksack.

wallet

/ ˈwɒlɪt /

noun

1. a small folding case, usually of leather, for holding paper money, documents, etc
2. a bag used to carry tools
3. archaic.
   a rucksack or knapsack

Word History and Origins

Origin of wallet¹

1350–1400; Middle English walet < ?

Word History and Origins

Origin of wallet¹

C14: of Germanic origin; compare Old English weallian, Old High German wallōn to roam, German wallen to go on a pilgrimage

Example Sentences

Perhaps it feels like “Where are my keys?” and “Where did I leave my wallet?” have become common refrains.

From Los Angeles Times

The former boss of Scotland's water industry regulator submitted expense claims for a £170 Mulberry wallet and £290 glasses which "had no clear business purpose".

From BBC

Opting to leave, Richardson was released without any personal belongings — her wallet and phone were inside her impounded Honda Civic, where it appeared she had been living.

From Los Angeles Times

Inflation has taken a bite out of our wallets.

From Los Angeles Times

Reported by Natalie Chandler: Inflation has cooled, but voters are still thinking with their wallets.

From Salon

Related Words

• folder
• pocketbook
• purse