Holdalls is a plural form of the word holdall, which refers to a large bag with handles, designed for carrying a lot of items. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈhəʊldɔːlz/. The word is spelled with a silent "a" that is pronounced as the long "o" sound /oʊ/. The word also has a double "l" after the "d," which indicates that the preceding vowel sound should be pronounced as a short sound /ɒ/. Overall, the spelling of holdalls reflects the complex nature of English pronunciation where one sound can be spelled in many different ways.
Holdalls noun plural
(hohl-dawls)
1. A type of spacious bag designed for carrying clothes, personal belongings, and other items, typically used for travel or sports activities.
Synonyms: duffle bags, travel bags, overnight bags, weekender bags, gym bags
Holdalls are known for their large interior capacity and are often made of durable materials such as leather, canvas, or nylon. They usually feature sturdy handles, adjustable shoulder straps, and a zipper or clasps for closure. Holdalls are versatile and popular due to their ability to accommodate a substantial amount of items, making them suitable for short trips, weekend getaways, or as an extra bag to complement your luggage set.
Holdalls can vary in size and design, ranging from compact versions suitable for carrying gym clothes and essentials, to larger options for longer vacations or sports equipment. Some holdalls may also include additional compartments, pockets, or internal organization features to help keep belongings neatly arranged and easily accessible.
Because of their practicality and convenience, holdalls are widely used by travelers, sports enthusiasts, and gym-goers alike. They are often seen as a stylish alternative to traditional suitcases or backpacks, offering a balance of functionality and modern design. Whether you are heading to the gym, going on a short trip, or need a reliable bag for your sporting gear, holdalls are a popular choice due to their spaciousness and versatility.
The word "holdall" has a fairly straightforward etymology. It is derived from the combination of two words: "hold" and "all".
The term "hold" comes from Middle English and originally referred to a place for holding or keeping things, such as the cargo storage area on a ship. It can be traced back to the Old English word "healdan", meaning "to hold or keep". Over time, "hold" expanded in meaning to also signify the act of grasping or gripping something.
The word "all" is derived from Old English as well, originating from the word "eall" which meant "all" or "every". It eventually became the modern English word "all", indicating the entirety or totality of something.
When combined, "holdall" is a compound word that essentially means "a bag or container for holding everything or all things".