dressing-bag

A woman opens her dressing-bag on the vanity table.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bag for toiletries or personal accessories: "dressing-bag" refers to a small bag or case designed to hold items used for grooming, such as a comb, mirror, brush, and cosmetics. It is typically used for travel or daily personal care.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She packed her dressing-bag with a hairbrush, mirror, and perfume before the trip. (A bag for grooming items.)
  • He kept his dressing-bag on the bathroom shelf for quick access to his shaving kit. (A container for toiletries.)

Advanced Usage

• "to carry a dressing-bag": to bring a bag containing personal grooming items.
  • The actress always carried a dressing-bag backstage for quick touch-ups. (She brought a bag for makeup and hair tools.)

Variants and Related Words

• Dressing case (n): a larger case or box for toiletries, often with compartments.

  • His dressing case held a full set of silver brushes and cologne bottles. (A larger container for grooming items.)

• Dressing gown (n): a robe worn over nightwear or while preparing to dress.

  • She slipped on her dressing gown before opening the door. (A robe for informal wear.)

Synonyms

• Toilet bag: a small bag for toiletries.
• Makeup bag: a bag specifically for cosmetics.
• Travel kit: a set of grooming items packed for travel.

Related Idioms

Notes

• The term "dressing-bag" is less common in modern English, often replaced by "toilet bag" or "dopp kit" (especially in American English). It is more prevalent in British English or historical contexts, referring to a bag for personal grooming items used in dressing rooms or during travel.