# handbag

/ˈhændˌbæɡ/ (US) · /hˈændbæɡ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/handbag
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. personal bag

noun · CEFR A2

a small bag used for carrying personal things like money, keys, and a phone.

For teachers: a small bag used primarily by women for carrying personal items and accessories.

- She realized she had left her handbag on the bus and ran back to find it.
- The designer's latest collection features a minimalist leather handbag with a detachable shoulder strap for versatile daily use.

Teaching tip: In American English, 'purse' is more common for this item, while 'handbag' often sounds slightly more formal or high-fashion.

### 2. to criticize

verb · CEFR C2 · British English · Humorous · Informal

to attack someone with words or criticize them strongly.

For teachers: to subject a person to a verbal attack or forceful criticism; often used in political contexts.

- The minister was handbagged by the opposition during the debate.
- The term originated from Margaret Thatcher's assertive leadership style, where she was said to 'handbag' any cabinet member who disagreed with her policies.

Usage: This verb is transitive and usually appears in the passive voice.

Teaching tip: This is a very specific Britishism. It is almost exclusively used to describe a woman in power being very firm or aggressive with her colleagues.

## Examples

- She left her handbag on the chair.
- The security guard asked her to open her handbag so he could check for prohibited items.
- While the fashion house is famous for its clothing line, the majority of its annual revenue actually comes from the sale of luxury leather handbags.

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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.