carpetbag
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkɑːrpɪtbæɡ/
KK: /ˈkɑːrpɪtbæɡ/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a person who moves into a new area to take advantage of opportunities, often for political gain, especially in a way that is seen as opportunistic or insincere.
Example
The carpetbag politician promised to improve the town but was only interested in his own benefits.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new carpetbag policy in the local elections?
Yeah, it seems like a lot of people are upset about it.
I think it really shows how carpetbag tactics are still a problem today.
Absolutely, it makes you wonder about the motivations behind those decisions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
opportunistic
exploitative
transient
Antonyms
steadfast
permanent
consistent
noun
Definition
A type of bag made from carpet material, commonly used for travel in the 19th century in the United States.
Example
He packed his belongings into a carpetbag for the long journey ahead.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a real carpetbag?
No, I haven't! What exactly is it used for?
It's an old-style bag made from carpet fabric, often used in the 19th century.
Root Explanation
Carpetbag → The word is formed from 'carpet' (from Old French *carpette*, meaning a small carpet or rug) and 'bag' (from Old Norse *baggi*, meaning a sack or pouch). A carpetbag originally referred to a bag made from carpet material, often used for travel.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'small carpet' ('carpet') being used to make a 'sack' ('bag') — that's how a carpetbag is a bag made from carpet.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.