What Is a Purse?

A purse is a small bag that carries personal items like keys, a wallet and money. It can be a handbag, shoulder bag or clutch. The word is derived from the Old English pusa (“bag, sack”) and the Middle High German pusa and Low German puse (“bag”). The bag can be made of leather or a more lightweight fabric. Some are even coated to protect against various weather conditions.

A well-made purse will look like new for years to come, and it’s possible to find one that fits any style. It’s important to learn what makes a purse good, and to avoid cheap or poorly made bags.

Ideally, the purse should have a strong strap. A quality strap will feel comfortable and fit securely around your shoulders, but it shouldn’t dig into the skin. It’s also essential that the straps are long enough to allow you to comfortably carry the purse where you want it.

The hardware is another important consideration when choosing a purse. A flimsy zipper or a closure that won’t open easily could be a sign of poor workmanship. A quality designer will carefully construct the hardware to ensure that it’s sturdy and usable.

In addition to the usual meaning of purse as a bag, the word can also refer to a prize won in a competition, such as a beauty contest or a sports tournament. Lastly, purse can also mean the act of puckering one’s lips together.

COACH Women's Crystal Jacquard Swinger 20 with Chain

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$225.00 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

higouta Quilted Puffer Tote Bag for Women Large Puffy Carryall Crossbody Shoulder Purse, Lightweight Travel Nylon Hobo Bag

(4156)

$27.72 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Travelambo RFID Wallet Women Large Size Bifold Multi Card Wallet Case with Zipper Pocke Credit Card Holder for Women

(45576477)

$12.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Airkit Small Wallet Women RFID Blocking Soft Leather Bifold Compact Card Holder Wallet for Women with Zipper Coin Pocket 4 ID Window

(4555427)

$11.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

TOPDesign Personalized Initial Canvas Beach Bag, Monogrammed Gift Tote Bag for Women

(48523981)

$17.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Lapensa Small Wallet for Women -Bifold Embroidery Flower Wallet RFID Blocking PU Leather with Zipper Pocket for women girls(Black)

(5058)

$6.29 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Mum's Memory Mini Zip Around Wristlet Wallet for Women Dual Pouch Wristlet Portable Wallet Coin Purse Mini Women Coin Pocket

(4652234)

$14.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

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