# tote

/ˈtoʊt/ (US) · /tˈəʊt/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a large, strong bag with two handles that is open at the top. You use it to carry many things at once, like groceries or books.

For teachers: a large, open-topped bag with parallel handles that emerge from the sides of its pouch. Often made of durable fabric like canvas or nylon.

## Examples

- I carry my groceries in a canvas tote.
- She packed her laptop, a notebook, and a water bottle into her leather tote before heading to the office.
- The rise of the reusable tote as a fashion accessory reflects a broader cultural shift toward sustainable consumer habits and the rejection of single-use plastic bags.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a compound noun, such as 'tote bag'.

---

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.