purse
- 01 A2 Elementary
a small container, often made of leather or plastic, used for carrying coins and paper money.
a small pouch or case for carrying money, particularly coins. In British English, this specifically refers to a small item kept inside a larger bag.
Simple“She reached into her bag to find her purse so she could pay for the coffee.”
In context“The elderly woman kept her loose change in a small leather purse, which she carefully tucked into a zipped compartment of her coat.”
- 02 A2 Elementary
a bag used for carrying personal items like keys, a phone, and money.
a medium-sized bag used for carrying personal belongings. This usage is the standard term for a handbag in American English.
Simple“He helped her find her purse after she left it under the table at the restaurant.”
In context“She carried a stylish black purse that was large enough to hold her tablet and several notebooks for the meeting.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
an amount of money offered as a prize in a competition or for a specific task.
a sum of money collected or offered as a prize or for a particular purpose, often in the context of sporting events.
Simple“The winner of the golf tournament took home a large cash purse.”
In context“The total purse for the championship was increased this year to attract more high-ranking international players.”