Sack

Definition

Sack primarily refers to a bag, especially a large one for carrying or storing goods. Additionally, in a secondary meaning, it refers to the act of dismissing someone from employment.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sæk/
• Respelling: SAK (with "SAK" as in "back")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sæk/
• Respelling: SAK (similar to American English, with "SAK" as in "back")

In both dialects, "sack" is pronounced straightforwardly with a short "a" sound. The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, reflecting the simple, direct nature of the word.

Etymology

The word "sack" is derived from the Old English word 'sacc,' which comes from the Latin word 'saccus,' which ultimately is borrowed from Greek 'sakkos,' a term for a variety of bags made from different materials.

Derivatives

• Sackful
• Sack-like
• Sackcloth
• ‍

Synonyms

Noun:

• Bag
• Pouch

Verb:

• Dismiss
• Terminate

Antonyms

Noun:

• None

Verb:

• Hire
• Employ
• Engage

Usage

The word 'sack' as a noun is often used to refer to a bag made of paper or other material. As a verb, it's used to describe the act of dismissing someone from a job, or more historically, the act of looting or pillaging a town or city during wartime.

Related Terms

• Sackcloth
• Sack race
• Sack out

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Container: A large bag of strong, coarse material for storing and carrying goods.‍
• Example: He carried a sack of groceries from the store.

• Bed: Informal term for bed.‍
• Example: He hit the sack early last night.

Verb

• (Mainly used in UK) Dismissal: To dismiss someone from employment.‍
• Example: After the incident, the manager decided to sack the employee.

• Pillage: The act of looting or plundering a town or city.‍
• Example: The invading army sacked the city and left it in ruins.