Meaning & Definition of word "Knapsack"
to
Knapsack
/ˈnæp.sæk/
noun:
- 1. A bag carried on the back, often with shoulder straps, used for carrying personal items or supplies.
- Example: She packed her knapsack with water, snacks, and a map for the hiking trip.
- 2. A type of backpack designed for carrying various items, especially during outdoor activities.
- Example: The campers filled their knapsacks with sleeping bags and tents before heading into the wilderness.
- 3. In mathematics and optimization, refers to a problem involving a set of items, each with a weight and a value, aimed at maximizing value without exceeding a weight limit.
- Example: The team worked on a solution for the knapsack problem to optimize their resource allocation.
Etymology
From German 'Rucksack', with 'Ruck' meaning 'back' and 'Sack' meaning 'bag'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
Pack a knapsack:
To prepare a bag for travel or an outing.
Knapsack on your back:
Carrying your belongings with ease.
Related Words
backpack:
A larger bag designed to be carried on the back, often used for longer trips.
satchel:
A bag with a strap, often used to carry books.
Slang Meanings of knapsack
Meaning: A portable supply storage
Example Sentence: Grab your knapsack before we head out for the weekend.
Meaning: A casual term for a backpack, often associated with travelers or students
Example Sentence: He brought his knapsack to class every day.