A briefcase is a rectangular container with a handle, designed to carry papers, folders, and other work materials. Picture a flat box made of leather or hard plastic, usually about the size of a large book but thicker, with a hinged lid that opens to reveal a compartment inside.

For generations, briefcases were a symbol of professional life. Lawyers carried them to court filled with case documents. Business executives carried them to meetings stuffed with reports and contracts. Doctors made house calls with medical briefcases containing instruments and supplies. The image of someone in a suit carrying a briefcase meant “this person has important work to do.”

Briefcases typically have a sturdy handle on top for carrying and often include a combination lock or latches to keep contents secure. Inside, you might find dividers or pockets to organize papers, pens, and business cards. Some modern briefcases have padded sections for laptops.

Today, many professionals use backpacks or messenger bags instead, but briefcases remain popular in law, finance, and government. The term has even evolved: a “nuclear briefcase” refers to the secure case containing codes for launching nuclear weapons, carried by military officers near world leaders.