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backpack

n. · v.
US //ˈbækˌpæk// UK //bˈækpæk// back·pack
  1. 1 a bag for the back (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a bag with straps that go over your shoulders so you can carry it on your back.

    a bag supported by two shoulder straps and worn on the back, typically used by students or hikers.

    Example

    He put his heavy textbooks in his backpack before walking to school.

    Example

    The hiker adjusted the padded straps of her backpack to distribute the weight more evenly across her hips before starting the steep ascent.
  2. 2 to hike and camp (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to go hiking and stay overnight in nature, carrying everything you need on your back.

    to hike and camp overnight in wilderness areas while carrying all necessary equipment and supplies in a backpack.

    Example

    We plan to backpack through the national park for three days this summer.

    Example

    They spent the entire month of July backpacking across the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada, relying solely on the supplies they could carry.

    Usage

    The verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
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  1. 3 to travel cheaply (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to travel to different places for a long time with very little money and only one bag.

    to engage in low-cost, independent travel, often staying in hostels and using public transport.

    Example

    After finishing university, she decided to backpack around Europe for six months.

    Example

    Many students choose to backpack through Southeast Asia during their gap year to experience diverse cultures on a limited budget.

    Usage

    Often used to describe international travel by young adults.
Origin

From back + pack.

Word family

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