duffel
DUFF-uhl
/ˈdʌf.əl/
A large cylindrical bag made of cloth or canvas, traditionally closed with a drawstring or zipper.
Implies a casual, flexible, or sports-oriented bag rather than formal structured luggage.
The story behind the word. The word originates from Duffel, Belgium, where thick heavy wool fabric was manufactured in the 17th century. Bags made from this coarse cloth came to be known as duffel bags.
Word relationships
- holdall: Holdall is the standard British English term for a flexible travel bag.
- kitbag: Kitbag often refers to a military or sports equipment bag.
Commonly confused with
- backpack: A backpack has two straps for wearing on the back, while a duffel usually has a single shoulder strap or handles.
Collocations
- duffel bag
- canvas duffel
- waterproof duffel
- leather duffel
Example sentences
- "He tossed his sneakers and water bottle into his canvas duffel before heading to the gym." Gym Routine
- "We packed our sleeping bags and clothes into heavy-duty waterproof duffels." Camping Trip
- "The recruit slung his heavy green duffel over his shoulder and stepped off the bus." Military Life
Memory hook
DUFFEL comes from a town in Belgium where tough cloth was woven. Duffel bag made of durable cloth.
When not to use
Do not use for hard-shelled or formal business suitcases.
Fun facts
- Duffel cloth was famously used by European sailors in the 1600s before becoming standard military gear in WWII.
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