rucksack

rucksack — noun

1. a strong bag worn on the back using two straps over the shoulders, designed for

1.nounA2
Definition

a strong bag worn on the back using two straps over the shoulders, designed for carrying food, clothes, and other items when hiking or travelling

Example

Lien packed her tent and sleeping bag into her rucksack before leaving for the hike.

collocation: pack + into + rucksack

Daichi's old rucksack broke when the zipper got stuck halfway up.

possessive subject + rucksack + break (common collocation)

Common collocations
  • pack a rucksack
  • carry a rucksack
  • wear a rucksack
  • heavy rucksack
  • lightweight rucksack
Synonyms
  • backpack

    the most common and general term; 'rucksack' is more specifically used for outdoor activities

  • knapsack

    an older, less common term, often referring to a smaller bag carried on the back

  • haversack

    a military or historical term for a bag worn over one shoulder

Usage Note

More common in British English than American English, where 'backpack' is the usual word for this kind of bag.

Common Mistakes

I took my rucksack to school every day.' (when speaking American English about a school day).
I took my backpack to school every day.
'Rucksack' is mainly used for hiking and travel, while 'backpack' is the everyday word for school or office.

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

These three words all refer to bags worn on the back, but they differ in usage and connotation. 'Backpack' is by far the most common word, used for school bags, travel bags, and hiking bags alike. 'Rucksack' — borrowed from German in the 19th century — is more common in British English and carries a stronger association with hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure; it often suggests a sturdier, more technical bag. 'Knapsack' is the oldest of the three, dating from the 17th century, and today sounds old-fashioned or military. A knapsack typically implies a smaller, simpler bag without a metal frame. For everyday use, 'backpack' is the safest choice; if you are writing about mountain trekking for a British audience, 'rucksack' sounds natural.

rucksack ↗backpack ↗knapsack

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • pack a rucksack
  • carry a rucksack
  • wear a rucksack
  • a rucksack full of
  • unpack a rucksack

Prepositions

Etymology

GermanEnglish

From German 'Rucksack', formed from 'Rücken' (back) and 'Sack' (bag). The word entered English in the mid-19th century, originally used by British soldiers and mountaineers who borrowed the term from German and Austrian hiking culture.