backpack
- 01 A2 Elementary
n.a bag with straps that go over your shoulders so you can carry it on your back.
n.a bag supported by two shoulder straps and worn on the back, typically used by students or hikers.
Simple“He put his heavy textbooks in his backpack before walking to school.”
In context“The hiker adjusted the padded straps of her backpack to distribute the weight more evenly across her hips before starting the steep ascent.”
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
v.to go hiking and stay overnight in nature, carrying everything you need on your back.
v.to hike and camp overnight in wilderness areas while carrying all necessary equipment and supplies in a backpack.
Simple“We plan to backpack through the national park for three days this summer.”
In context“They spent the entire month of July backpacking across the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada, relying solely on the supplies they could carry.”
UsageThe verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
- 03 B1 Intermediate
v.to travel to different places for a long time with very little money and only one bag.
v.to engage in low-cost, independent travel, often staying in hostels and using public transport.
Simple“After finishing university, she decided to backpack around Europe for six months.”
In context“Many students choose to backpack through Southeast Asia during their gap year to experience diverse cultures on a limited budget.”
UsageOften used to describe international travel by young adults.
From back + pack.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.