# Gladstone

/ˈɡɫædˌstoʊn/ (US) · /ɡlˈædstəʊn/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gladstone
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a small suitcase that opens into two equal parts. It was popular a long time ago and is usually made of stiff leather.

For teachers: a light travelling bag or portmanteau made of stiff leather, constructed on a hinged iron frame that allows it to open into two equal compartments. Named after the British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone.

## Examples

- He packed his clothes into an old leather gladstone.
- The detective arrived at the scene carrying a heavy gladstone filled with various forensic tools.
- In Victorian literature, the gladstone often serves as a symbol of the mobile middle class, representing a shift toward more compact and efficient modes of personal travel.

## Usage notes

- Often used as 'gladstone bag'; when used alone, it remains a countable noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.