baggage

word

/ˈbæɡədʒ/
BAG-ij
/bˈæɡɪdʒ/
BAG-ij

Definition

Baggage means the bags, suitcases, and other things you take with you when you travel. It can also mean emotional problems or difficult past experiences that affect someone now.

Usage & Nuances

In travel contexts, 'baggage' is a mass noun, so we usually say 'some baggage' or 'a piece of baggage,' not 'a baggage.' In American English, 'luggage' is often more common for travel, while 'emotional baggage' is a very common figurative phrase.

Example Sentences

Please keep your baggage with you at all times.

basic

His baggage was too heavy to carry alone.

basic

They lost our baggage at the airport.

basic

I like him, but he comes with a lot of emotional baggage.

natural

We checked our baggage and went straight to security.

natural

Try not to bring your old relationship baggage into this one.

natural