Knapsack

/ˈnæp.sæk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A bag carried on the back, often with shoulder straps, used for carrying personal items or supplies.

She packed her knapsack with water, snacks, and a map for the hiking trip.

A type of backpack designed for carrying various items, especially during outdoor activities.

The campers filled their knapsacks with sleeping bags and tents before heading into the wilderness.

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.

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

A portable supply storage

Grab your knapsack before we head out for the weekend.

A casual term for a backpack, often associated with travelers or students

He brought his knapsack to class every day.