purse

A "purse" is more than just something you carry. Most often, it means a bag for money, keys, and other personal things. In American English, it usually means a handbag. In British English, it more often means a small case for coins, cash, or cards. The word can also mean a supply of money, as in "the public purse," or prize money in a sports event. It also has a verb form: if you press your lips together so they form a small round shape, you "purse" them. So the word can point to something in your hand, a source of money, or a look on your face.

The word "purse" moves through everyday English in a few clear ways. The most common meaning is a bag used to carry personal things. In the United States, this usually means a woman's handbag or shoulder bag. In the United Kingdom, it more often means a smaller item used to hold coins, notes, or cards. Because of that difference, the exact picture in your mind may change depending on the variety of English being used.

The word also has an important money sense. A "purse" can mean a store of money or money available for spending. That is why people talk about "the public purse" when they mean government funds, or say someone has a "full purse" when they mean that person has plenty of money. In sports and other contests, the "purse" is the prize money that the winner or participants compete for.

There is also a verb use. If you "purse" your lips, you press them together so they push forward into a small rounded shape. This often suggests thought, doubt, annoyance, or disapproval. So the word can describe something you carry, money set aside for use, prize money in competition, or a facial movement.