A2noun1K

Pocket

UK /["/ˈpɒkɪt/"]/US /["/ˈpɑːkɪt/"]/

Definition

a small piece of material like a small bag sewn into or onto a piece of clothing so that you can carry things in it

In simple words: A small bag sewn into clothes for holding items.

Examples

  • I put my keys in my pocket so I wouldn't lose them.
  • Her dress has a pocket that is perfect for holding her phone.
  • He reached into his pocket to get some change.
  • The pocket of the jacket was very deep, allowing for extra storage.
  • In poker, you can have a pocket pair which gives you a good chance of winning.
  • They had a pocket of warm air in the cold room, which felt nice.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation and writing. It's appropriate in nearly all contexts, but be cautious in formal writing where more specific terms (like 'compartment') might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

pocket + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'pocket' as a 'tiny pocket-sized storage'.

Collocations

  • bulging
  • deep
  • zip
  • check
  • feel in
  • fish in
  • bulge
  • lining
  • in the/​your pocket
  • out of the/​your pocket
  • hands in pockets
  • with your hands in your pockets
  • the lining of a pocket
  • bulging
  • deep
  • zip
  • check
  • feel in
  • fish in
  • bulge
  • lining
  • in the/​your pocket
  • out of the/​your pocket
  • hands in pockets
  • with your hands in your pockets
  • the lining of a pocket
  • large
  • small
  • isolated
  • a pocket of resistance

Synonyms

  • compartment
  • pouch
  • slot
  • pocketbook
  • bag

Antonyms

  • palm
  • open

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'pockets' as a verb meaning to hide something.
  • Using 'pocket' incorrectly in plural form when referring to handheld items.
  • Mistaking 'pocket' for an individual item instead of a space in clothing.