A small book for carrying in one's pocket; a woman's handbag; one's financial resources.
Originally a small book designed to fit in a pocket, first recorded in the 1610s. The meaning extended to wallets and purses by the 18th century, and to handbags by the 19th century, with the financial sense developing from the wallet meaning.
The evolution of 'pocketbook' from literal pocket-sized books to financial resources shows how technology shapes language - as literacy spread and books shrank, the container became more important than the content. Today's smartphones are the true pocket books, containing entire libraries in devices smaller than the original pocketbooks.
Became gendered as 'women's sphere' in 20th-century consumer culture—purse/wallet tied to female domestic purchasing power. 'Hitting the pocketbook' implies feminine financial vulnerability.
Use neutrally for wallet/finances without gendered subject. Phrase like 'fiscal impact' or 'financial burden' for broader reference.
["wallet","finances","budget"]
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