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Definition of backpack

backpack

/ˈbæk.pæk/
back · pack
Plural:backpacks
•
Past Simple:backpacked
•
Past Participle:backpacked
•
Present Participle:backpacking
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backpack Lexical Profile

backpack Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A bag with shoulder straps designed to be carried on the back, typically used by students, hikers, or travelers to transport belongings.

Example

"She packed her textbooks and laptop into her backpack before heading to the university."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for backpack

• verb

1

To travel or hike while carrying one's belongings in a backpack, often for recreation or budget travel.

Example

"They decided to backpack through Europe for three months after graduating from college."

2

To carry food, equipment, or other items in a backpack.

Example

"We backpacked our heavy camping gear up the steep trail to reach the summit by noon."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for backpack

• Nearby Words

backlog
backlot
backorder
backpack
backpacker
backpacking
backpaddle

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century in the United States, formed as a compound of the noun 'back' and 'pack'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Backpack. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/backpack
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