# pocketbook

/ˈpɑkətˌbʊk/ (US) · /pˈɒkɪtbˌʊk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pocketbook
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

a small bag for carrying money, cards and personal things. In the US you use this word for a woman's purse or handbag.

For teachers: a small purse or handbag for carrying money, cards and personal items, chiefly in American usage. Extended figuratively to personal financial resources, as in discussions of taxes or living costs.

## Examples

- She keeps her keys and money in her pocketbook.
- She grabbed her pocketbook before leaving for work, checking that her phone and wallet were inside.
- Candidates often focus on pocketbook concerns like food prices and rent because voters judge economic plans by their direct effect on household budgets.

## Synonyms

Purse, handbag

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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.