Search Dictionary
Definition of knapsack

knapsack

/ˈnæp.sæk/
knap · sack
Plural:knapsacks
JUMP TO:

knapsack Lexical Profile

knapsack Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A bag with shoulder straps, designed to be carried on the back and typically made of canvas, nylon, or other sturdy material.

Example

"The young scout packed his compass, water canteen, and a warm blanket into his knapsack before the weekend trip."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for knapsack

• Nearby Words

knack
knackered
knackers
knapsack
knapweed
knautia
knead

Word Origin & Etymology

Early 17th century: from Low German or Dutch knappsack, formed from knappen 'to bite or eat' plus sack 'bag', originally referring to a bag used by travelers or soldiers to carry food provisions.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Knapsack. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 3, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/knapsack
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.