Meaning & Definition
noun
Luggage or bags that a traveler takes with them on a journey.
We checked our baggage at the airport before heading to the gate.
A burden or load, often in a metaphorical sense, referring to emotional or psychological issues.
He carried a lot of emotional baggage from his childhood.
Unnecessary or unwanted items that clutter one’s life or thoughts.
She tried to let go of the mental baggage that was holding her back.
Etymology
Middle English baggagge, from the word 'bag'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
emotional baggage:
The unresolved issues and emotions from past experiences.
baggage claim:
The area in an airport where travelers retrieve their checked luggage.
carry baggage:
To bear or carry the weight of past experiences.
Slang Meanings
Extra emotional issues.
He's got a lot of baggage from his childhood.
Unwanted complications in a relationship.
I can't deal with the baggage she's bringing into this new relationship.